Brittney Griner Signs with Atlanta Dream, Ending 11-Year Stint with Phoenix Mercury

After 11 successful years with the Phoenix Mercury, Brittney Griner has decided to sign with the Atlanta Dream. The star center made the announcement in a video posted on Instagram, with her agent Lindsay Kagawa Colas confirming that she will be signing a one-year deal with Atlanta.

In the video, Griner expressed her excitement about joining the Dream, citing the team, players, and her family as key factors in her decision. She mentioned that free agency had been a fulfilling experience for her, allowing her to explore new opportunities and ultimately choose Atlanta as her next destination. Griner also revealed that the new collective bargaining agreement, set to take effect in 2026, played a role in her decision to sign a one-year deal.

Griner, who stands at 6-foot-9, was drafted No. 1 overall by the Mercury in 2013 and has been a dominant force in the WNBA ever since. Known for her scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and shot-blocking skills, Griner is a 10-time All-Star and ranks third on the WNBA’s career blocks list.

The 34-year-old center missed the 2022 season after being detained in Russia for almost 10 months due to a cannabis-related incident. She was eventually released in a prisoner swap, returning to the United States to resume her basketball career.

Griner’s decision to join the Dream marks a significant move for the franchise, adding a proven superstar to a talented roster led by Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray. With a new coach in Karl Smesko and the addition of Griner, Atlanta is poised to make a strong push for success in the upcoming season.

During the free agency period, Griner also had discussions with other teams such as Dallas and Las Vegas before ultimately choosing Atlanta as her next destination. The Dream, who made the playoffs last season, will look to build on their success and compete for a championship with Griner in the lineup.

Meanwhile, Phoenix has been undergoing changes of its own, finalizing a deal to acquire Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun. The future of veteran Diana Taurasi with the Mercury remains uncertain, as she contemplates whether to continue playing or retire.

As Griner embarks on a new chapter in her career with the Atlanta Dream, fans can expect to see her bring her unique skill set and competitive spirit to the court, aiming to lead her new team to success in the WNBA.