Brittney Griner | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : January 20, 2025

Who is Brittney Griner?

Brittney Griner is a professional basketball player and a prominent figure in the WNBA, known for her exceptional skills on the court. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches tall, Griner was drafted first overall by the Phoenix Mercury in 2013, where she quickly made a name for herself as a dominant force in women's basketball. Over her illustrious career, she has earned numerous accolades, including nine WNBA All-Star selections and two Olympic gold medals with the U.S. women’s national team. Griner played a pivotal role in leading the Mercury to a WNBA championship in 2014, averaging impressive statistics such as 17.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game.

Off the court, Griner emerged as an outspoken advocate for incarcerated Americans, particularly following her own experience of wrongful detention in Russia. Arrested in February 2022 for drug-related charges, her case drew international attention and led to her release in December that year after a prisoner swap. Since returning to the U.S., Griner has used her platform to raise awareness about other Americans detained abroad, including journalist Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan. Her activism emphasizes the importance of community and solidarity in the fight for justice for those wrongfully imprisoned, marking her not only as a sports icon but also as a dedicated advocate for change.

Early Life and Education

Brittney Griner was born on October 18, 1990, in Houston, Texas, where she was raised alongside her three siblings. Growing up, Brittney faced challenges as she navigated her height, towering at 6 feet 9 inches, but her unique stature became a defining asset in her athletic pursuits. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in basketball and began playing in local leagues, quickly showcasing her extraordinary talent on the court. Griner attended Nimitz High School, where she excelled in basketball, setting the stage for a stellar collegiate career.

Griner's exceptional abilities led her to Baylor University, where she played for the Baylor Bears from 2009 to 2013. During her college career, she garnered significant attention, earning numerous awards and accolades, including the NCAA Women's Basketball Championship in 2012. She was also a two-time recipient of the Naismith College Player of the Year award, highlighting her dominance in the sport. Griner completed her degree in Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, which has shaped her understanding of the physical and mental aspects of sports, further enhancing her career as a professional basketball player.

Career Beginnings and WNBA Draft

Brittney Griner was born on October 18, 1990, in Houston, Texas. From a young age, she exhibited a remarkable talent for basketball, leading her teams to numerous victories throughout her high school career at Nimitz High School. Griner's standout performance caught the attention of collegiate scouts, culminating in her acceptance to Baylor University, where she became a key player for the Lady Bears. During her time at Baylor, she set numerous records, including an astounding 751 career blocks, solidifying her reputation as one of the top players in college basketball history.

After an impressive collegiate career and winning a national championship in 2012, Griner declared for the WNBA Draft. In 2013, she was selected first overall by the Phoenix Mercury, making history as the first openly gay athlete drafted in the league. Her unique combination of strength, height (6-foot-9), and skill on the court quickly earned her a spot among the elite players in the WNBA. Griner's rookie season set the tone for her career, as she won the WNBA Rookie of the Year award and helped lead the Mercury to a championship in 2014, establishing her lasting impact in professional basketball.

Achievements and Advocacy for Detained Americans

Brittney Griner is a prominent American basketball player, celebrated for her impressive accomplishments in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and her advocacy work for detained Americans. Standing 6 feet 9 inches tall, Griner has earned numerous accolades during her career, including being a nine-time WNBA All-Star and helping the Phoenix Mercury clinch the championship in 2014. A standout player from Baylor University, she was the first overall pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft and has averaged 17.7 points and 7.5 rebounds throughout her career. In addition to her WNBA success, Griner has represented the United States in international competitions, securing gold medals at the 2016 and 2020 Olympics.

Since her return to the United States in December 2022 after being detained in Russia, Griner has become an unwavering advocate for Americans wrongfully held abroad. She has publicly supported other detainees like ex-marine Paul Whelan and journalist Evan Gershkovich, emphasizing the need for awareness and action regarding their situations. Through her involvement with campaigns like Bring Our Families Home, Griner continually pushes for the release of those still held against their will. Her commitment to social justice and equality extends beyond basketball, as she actively champions the cause of those who are unjustly imprisoned, inspiring many with her resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Return to Basketball After Detainment

Brittney Griner, the Phoenix Mercury's formidable center, made a triumphant return to the basketball court during a WNBA preseason game against the Los Angeles Sparks on May 12, 2023. This game was particularly significant as it marked her first appearance since her release from a nearly nine-month detainment in Russia. Griner expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to play again after overcoming a period filled with challenges and uncertainty. Eager to reclaim her place in the sport, she had little time to prepare physically but showed resilience and determination, scoring 10 points in just 17 minutes of play, a testament to her innate talent and dedication.

Throughout her ten-year WNBA career, Griner has established herself as a powerhouse in women's basketball, averaging 17.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Her impressive track record includes securing a WNBA championship, participating in the Olympic Games, and being selected as an All-Star multiple times. Following her difficult experience in Russia, Griner not only returned to the sport she loves but also used her platform to advocate for the release of other American detainees. Her journey signifies not only her resilience but also her commitment to social justice, making her return to basketball even more meaningful in the context of her personal and professional life.

Personal Life: Married Life and Partner

Brittney Griner, the prominent WNBA star, has not only made headlines for her basketball prowess but also for her evolving personal life. In 2019, Griner married fellow basketball player, Glory Johnson, in a ceremony that gained significant media attention. Their relationship, however, faced challenges, leading to a controversial and public divorce in 2020 after a tumultuous marriage marked by legal disputes and personal struggles. The couple shares twins, born through surrogacy, which further tied their lives together despite the complexities of their relationship.

In the years following her separation from Johnson, Griner has continued to focus on her career and personal growth. She publicly identified as a part of the LGBTQ community, using her platform to advocate for LGBTQ rights and encourage acceptance. In 2022, Griner became engaged to Cherelle Watson, a longtime friend, and the two expressed profound love and support for one another. Their union is built on the foundations of mutual respect and understanding, helping Griner navigate the challenges she faced during her international detainment in Russia. Cherelle has often been seen as a strong pillar in Griner’s life, supporting her both on and off the court.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Endorsements

Brittney Griner, a renowned basketball player and nine-time WNBA All-Star, has built a significant net worth through her career in sports and endorsements. As one of the most recognizable figures in women's basketball, Griner was drafted first overall by the Phoenix Mercury in 2013. Throughout her decade-long career, she has earned an average annual salary of around $200,000 from the WNBA. Her impressive skills on the court, including her remarkable scoring ability and defensive prowess, have made her a vital asset to the Mercury, contributing to team success and increasing her market value.

In addition to her WNBA salary, Griner benefits from numerous endorsement deals, which further bolster her financial standing. Over the years, she has partnered with various brands, including Nike and other prominent companies, securing lucrative contracts that significantly enhance her earnings. Furthermore, her visibility, especially following her high-profile return from detention in Russia, has increased her engagement with fans and sponsors alike, making her a sought-after athlete for promotional campaigns. With her ongoing commitment to basketball and her advocacy work, Brittney Griner's financial future remains bright as she continues to inspire others both on and off the court.