The WNBA offseason has been full of surprises, with big player moves shaking up team rosters across the league.
Among the most unexpected and impactful is Brittney Griner’s decision to leave the Phoenix Mercury after 11 seasons and join the Atlanta Dream. Griner’s departure marks the end of an era for Phoenix, where she was a dominant presence and a cornerstone of the team for over a decade.
Griner, who was drafted No. 1 overall in the 2013 WNBA Draft after a stellar career at Baylor, leaves behind an incredible legacy in Phoenix.
Over her 11 years with the Mercury, Griner earned 10 All-Star selections, two WNBA scoring titles, and eight WNBA blocks leader honors. Her leadership and exceptional play helped guide Phoenix to a WNBA title in 2014, making her one of the most accomplished players in the league’s history.
Now, Griner is set to wear a new jersey with the Atlanta Dream, a team that finished the 2024 season as the No. 8 seed. The Dream were swept in the first round by the eventual WNBA champions, the New York Liberty, but Griner’s addition is a game-changer. The move provides Atlanta with a seasoned superstar who can immediately bolster their chances for a deeper playoff run.
Kevin Durant gave his thoughts on the move
Following the Phoenix Suns’ loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, NBA star Kevin Durant, who has played in the same city as Griner, shared his thoughts on her move. Durant expressed his shock over the decision but acknowledged that change is part of professional sports.
“BG has been a staple here in the city for so long,” Durant said.
“Everybody needs a change. She’s going to impact that city just as much. I loved getting to play in the same city as her for the last couple of years and been a good friend of mine for a while.”
Durant’s comments reflect the deep respect Griner has earned from those in the sports community, not just for her on-court accomplishments but also for her presence and impact in Phoenix.
For the Atlanta Dream, acquiring Griner is a significant move. With her experience, talent, and leadership, Griner brings an invaluable asset to a team looking to make a mark in the coming season. While the Dream struggled in the 2024 playoffs, they now have the potential to make a much stronger push in 2025 with Griner leading the charge.
Griner’s move to the Dream represents a fresh chapter in her illustrious career, and it will be exciting to see how her presence impacts her new team. After a decade with Phoenix, the next phase of Griner’s career is set to unfold in Atlanta, where she will continue to be a force on the court.
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