Local

Seattle Storm head coach Dan Hughes diagnosed with cancer

Head Coach Dan Hughes of the Seattle Storm reacts during game three of the WNBA Western Conference Finals against the Phoenix Mercury at Talking Stick Resort Arena on August 31, 2018 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

SEATTLE — Seattle Storm head coach Dan Hughes has been diagnosed with cancer, the team announced Friday.

Hughes, 64, helped lead the Storm to a league-best 26-8 record and a WNBA Championship in his first year as head coach in 2018.

"Our thoughts and support are with Dan, Mary and their family," said Alisha Valavanis, Storm CEO and General Manager. "Dan's health is a top priority and the Storm will stand beside him on this journey. The coaching staff is in place and will support should any time be missed for recovery."

Hughes will be under the care of Dr. Henry Kaplan and Dr. Adam Pourcho and will undergo surgery, performed by Dr. Amir Bastawrous, at the Swedish First Hill Campus before the team’s season-opener on May 15.

The team did not release a further timetable, but Hughes released a video statement addressing his diagnosis. Click here to watch.

KIRO 7 will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.

More news from KIRO 7

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE NEWS APP