Brittney Griner, the nine-time WNBA All-Star center known for her stellar career with the Phoenix Mercury, has signed with the Atlanta Dream, marking the end of her lengthy tenure with the Phoenix team.
The announcement came via Griner's Instagram on January 28, 2025, where she expressed her excitement for this significant shift. "Honestly, what led me to decide was the team, the players. Also my family. I’m thrilled for this chapter," Griner stated. Her agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, confirmed the move to The Associated Press, indicating Griner will officially sign with Atlanta on February 1, aligning with the start of the WNBA free agency period.
After being drafted as the number one overall pick by the Phoenix Mercury back in 2013, Griner has contributed massively to the franchise over the years, helping secure their third championship title during her run. Despite her success with the Mercury, Griner felt the need for change. "It was hard to leave what you know," she admitted. "There’s an exciting factor of like, OK, this is a rebrand now. I get to show them something different." Her decision has sent ripples through the WNBA community.
Kevin Durant, star player for the Phoenix Suns, shared his shock at Griner’s departure. He remarked after the Suns' game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, "I was definitely shocked to see her leave. That’s just part of professional sports. BG has been a staple here... Atlanta is going to be incredible for her." Durant’s sentiments reflect the feelings of many fans and players alike who were used to seeing Griner as part of the Mercury's foundation.
Her move to Atlanta is seen as one of the most high-profile acquisitions for the Dream, aiming to not only bolster their roster but attract new fans as well. They have struggled with stability and attendance issues, often ranking at the bottom for home game attendance. The Dream’s recent history has included four different ownership regimes and six full-time head coaches since their inception. According to Ken Sugiura from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Griner is expected to lend "credibility to a franchise" hoping to steer itself back to consistency and fan engagement.
The Dream also boasts some significant talents alongside Griner, including 2022’s top draft pick Rhyne Howard and All-Star guard Allisha Gray, who joined the team last season. The combination of these players gives Atlanta its best chance for improvement. Griner's signing is expected to boost jersey sales and attendance as the team looks to maximize this opportunity.
Griner’s move isn't just about basketball; it serves as a fresh start after challenging recent years. After being detained for 294 days in Russia, her story captured international attention. The WNBA star faced significant challenges, including her arrest on cannabis possession charges, but made a commendable comeback post-release. Her performance during the 2023 season showcased her resilience, averaging 17.8 points and 6.6 rebounds.
With Griner’s addition, the Atlanta Dream is trying to embrace the potential for growth. The team had sold out its season ticket packages for the second consecutive year, indicating some upward momentum as they prepare for the upcoming season. Yet, Sugiura cautions, they must do more than just sell out their games; they have to leverage Griner's presence to boost overall interest and long-term success.
Griner's departure from Phoenix leaves many questions on how both teams will adapt. The Mercury is moving forward following some recent roster changes, including acquiring five-time All-Star Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun. Yet, they will have to fill the enormous gap left by Griner’s absence.
Her decision aligns with the revitalization themes seen across the WNBA, where players are taking bold steps to shape their careers. For Griner, this new chapter with the Atlanta Dream not only transforms her professional path but also symbolizes hope and resilience following one of the most challenging periods of her life. The basketball community awaits to see how she will impact the Dream and what this shift means for women’s basketball as a whole.