SEATTLE — It’s a new-look Seattle Storm team in many ways.

But transitions like this have often marked the beginning of new eras for the franchise.

Gone are several key players from recent seasons, including Skylar Diggins, Nneka Ogwumike, Gabby Williams and Erica Wheeler. Their departures create opportunities for a younger roster to step into larger roles, beginning with Wednesday’s preseason home game against the Portland Fire.

“Keeping the vibes, understanding that we’re still learning — this is all a process,” guard Lexie Brown said. “We’re experimenting with things because this game doesn’t count toward our record. It’s about getting everybody out there, giving everyone a chance to be comfortable in their role and enjoying being a WNBA player.”

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Coach Sonia Raman said leadership will come from throughout the roster.

“We’ve got a lot of leaders in this group,” Raman said. “Leaders don’t just have to be the oldest players or the veterans, so I like to encourage those voices.”

The Storm are coming off a narrow preseason loss to the Golden State Valkyries over the weekend, a game Raman said provided valuable lessons.

“The last game told us more about what we need to work on next,” Raman said. “We’re building our defense into those next layers, especially our rotations.”

Raman added that a practice Tuesday at Climate Pledge Arena also helped players adjust to the environment, from lighting and court conditions to locker room setup.

“We’re so excited to play here,” Raman said. “These are the best fans in the W. Some of our players know that already, and some will learn it tomorrow. We feel their support.”

Brown said the team’s earlier preseason game may help ease nerves for younger players.

“I think it’s great that we got to play in Golden State first so these rookies got a taste of what it’s like to be in a packed arena,” Brown said. “They’re not going to come here and be nervous. I think we got that out of the way. I love playing here even more, so I’m excited to be in front of our fans again.”

The Storm will be without several key players for the preseason. No. 3 overall pick Awa Fam is finishing her professional season in Spain. Ezi Magbegor is expected to miss another five to seven weeks, while Katie Lou Samuelson and Jordan Horston are nearing returns from long-term injuries but are not expected to play yet.

Seattle’s preseason game against the expansion Portland Fire is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday at Climate Pledge Arena. The Storm open the regular season May 8 against Golden State.