Brittney Griner, currently playing as a center for the Atlanta Dream, is having a promising season by averaging 10.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. This marks her first year with the Dream, a new chapter for Griner after spending her entire professional career with the Phoenix Mercury from 2013 to 2024. Her move to a new team has brought fresh challenges and opportunities for the seasoned player.
Griner began her career as the first overall pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft with the Mercury, immediately impacting the league. Although she did not earn Rookie of the Year honors—an accolade that went to Elena Delle Donne, the draft‘s second pick—Griner secured a spot on the 2013 WNBA All-Rookie Team, signaling her potential early on.
Career-Highlight Game Against Indiana Fever
One of Brittney Griner’s most memorable performances occurred in 2017 during a tightly contested game against the Indiana Fever. Griner scored a career-high 38 points in a 98-90 overtime win, demonstrating her scoring ability and presence on the court. She made an immediate impact by contributing eight of the Mercury’s first ten points in the overtime period, showcasing her dominance in key moments.
The game saw Griner explode for 23 points in the first half, though foul trouble limited her minutes to start the second half. She played a critical role late in regulation by hitting a vital basket that gave Phoenix a two-point lead, a testament to her clutch performance in tight situations. Despite the close battle, neither team could clinch victory before overtime, extending the intensity of the matchup.
Alongside her scoring, Griner delivered nearly a double-double, grabbing nine rebounds, and adding three assists, two blocks, and a steal. This well-rounded production helped balance the team’s offense. She was one of four Mercury players who scored in double digits, with Diana Taurasi contributing 17 points, Leilani Mitchell adding 14 off the bench, and Stephanie Talbot scoring 11.
Previous Peak Performance and Consistency
Prior to this standout game, Griner had already shown her capability against the Fever with a 32-point, 10-rebound performance during a commanding 85-62 Phoenix victory. This effort marked her career high at that time, which she would later surpass with the 38-point outburst. These performances against Indiana highlight Griner’s ability to step up in important matchups and display her scoring and rebounding skills.
Upcoming Recognition and Legacy with the Mercury
As the Phoenix Mercury prepare to face the Atlanta Dream, an upcoming game will honor Brittney Griner’s significant contributions to the franchise. This recognition celebrates her numerous impactful moments throughout her tenure, including her unforgettable games against Indiana and steady presence over the years. Griner’s legacy with the Mercury is marked by her talent, leadership, and memorable performances that helped shape the team’s identity.
This event underscores the respect and appreciation the Mercury hold for Griner, as she moves forward in her career with the Dream. Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness how this transition will continue to influence her career trajectory and the league’s competitive balance.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Brittney Griner give birth to a child?
A. In July, Griner announced she had her first baby with her wife. While talking to CBS Sports before the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the Phoenix Mercury player said their baby was born on July 8. She referred to the baby affectionately as her beloved.
Q. Did Brittney Griner give birth to a baby?
A. Brittney Griner, who has won two Olympic gold medals, has celebrated the birth of her first child with her wife, Cherelle Griner. In a special interview with “We Need to Talk,” Griner announced that her son was born on July 8, 2024, saying, “He’s here.”