Atlanta Dream center Brittney Griner continues to make waves in the WNBA this year, averaging 10.5 points and 5.8 rebounds through the current season. She recently made a notable return to Phoenix, marking her first visit as a Dream player since leaving the Mercury.
Griner’s Legacy with the Phoenix Mercury and Historic Achievements
Griner spent over a decade with the Phoenix Mercury, from 2013 to 2024, establishing herself among the franchise’s all-time leaders. During her tenure, she consistently set records and elevated the team’s status. Beyond the Mercury, she solidified her place in WNBA history as a pioneering dunker.
The Evolution of Dunking in the WNBA
While the act of dunking in the WNBA was once rare, trailblazers such as Los Angeles Sparks legend Lisa Leslie began setting the precedent. Leslie made history as the first player to dunk in a league game in 2002 against the Miami Sol. Since then, a total of eight players, including Griner, have successfully dunked in professional games.
Alongside Griner, players like Michelle Snow, Candace Parker, Sylvia Fowles, Jonquel Jones, Liz Cambage, and Awak Kuier have contributed to this evolving aspect of the game.
Brittney Griner’s Dunking Milestones
Griner’s dunking prowess was apparent from her very first WNBA game after being the top pick in the 2013 draft. She delivered two dunks during her debut, immediately making history. To date, Griner has completed 27 dunks: 18 during regular-season play, two in the playoffs, and seven in All-Star Games. This accomplishment sets her far apart from her closest competitors.
Players such as Cambage, Fowles, Leslie, and Parker have each made only two dunks in comparison. Griner also holds the distinction of being the first player to dunk in the Unrivaled league, which was founded by Minnesota Lynx’s Napheesa Collier and New York Liberty’s Breanna Stewart.
Physical Advantage and Consistent Excellence
Standing at 6-foot-9, Griner’s height provides a significant advantage in the post, making her a consistent threat near the basket. Her dunking ability has become a signature aspect of her game, always creating electrifying moments for fans and teammates alike.
Looking Ahead to Griner’s Continuing Influence
With 27 dunks and counting, Brittney Griner’s WNBA dunk record is a milestone unlikely to be surpassed soon. As she continues her career, there is strong potential for her to increase this total. Griner’s dominance on the court and history-making dunks will inspire future generations, encouraging more players in the league to emulate her highlight-reel plays.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Brittney Griner give birth to a child?
A. In July, Griner announced that she and her wife had their first child. In an interview with CBS Sports, before the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the Phoenix Mercury athlete shared that their baby was born on July 8. “That’s my man,” she said.
Q. Did Brittney Griner give birth to a baby?
A. Brittney Griner, who has won two Olympic gold medals, now has a child with her wife and lawyer, Cherelle Griner. During an interview with We Need to Talk, she announced the birth of their son. “He’s here. Yes, 7/8/24,” she said.
Q. Who is the father of Brittney Griner’s baby?
A. Brittney Griner and her wife, Cherelle, have announced the birth of their son. The WNBA player shared that their baby boy, Bash Raymond, was born on July 8.
Q. Who is Brittney Griner’s baby father?
A. A new fan has joined the USA Women’s Basketball team! Brittney Griner, who has won two Olympic gold medals, and her wife, Cherelle Griner, have just welcomed their first baby.