Brittney Griner Joins Atlanta Dream in Major Free Agency Move
WNBA star Brittney Griner has officially signed with the Atlanta Dream after spending 10 seasons with the Phoenix Mercury. The move marks a significant shift in her career, as it is the first time she has entered free agency.
Griner announced her decision in a video on Instagram, where she appeared alongside her new Dream teammates during a fishing trip. She expressed excitement about this new chapter, calling it a “rebrand” and emphasizing that both the team and her family played key roles in her decision.
A Decade of Success with Phoenix Mercury
Griner was the No. 1 pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft and spent her entire career with the Mercury until now. Over 10 seasons, she established herself as a dominant force, leading the franchise in blocks (812), rebounds (2,322), and shooting percentage (56.2%).
During her time in Phoenix, she earned 10 All-Star selections, two WNBA scoring titles, and two Defensive Player of the Year awards. She also helped lead the Mercury to a WNBA championship in 2014 alongside Diana Taurasi.
Why Griner Chose the Atlanta Dream
Griner revealed that making the decision to leave Phoenix was tough. “It was a hard decision since you’re leaving what you know, what I’ve known for my whole career,” she shared in her Instagram video. However, she also saw it as a fresh start.
“The exciting factor is, like, OK, this is a rebrand now. I get to show them something different,” Griner explained. She emphasized that her new team and its players played a huge role in her choice, as well as her family’s support.
Atlanta Dream’s Ambitions with Griner on Board
The Atlanta Dream, a team looking to make a deep playoff run, secured Griner with a one-year deal. The contract will be officially signed on February 1, when the WNBA free agency period opens.
Last season, the Dream finished with a 19-21 record and made it to the postseason. With Griner’s experience and dominance in the paint, Atlanta hopes to become a stronger contender in the 2024 season.
End of an Era with Diana Taurasi and the Mercury
Griner’s departure marks the end of a legendary duo in Phoenix. She and Diana Taurasi played together for over a decade, winning a championship and multiple Olympic gold medals. Taurasi had previously spoken about their bond, saying, “To be here 10 years later with you guys, it’s like a sisterhood.”
Taurasi, who is currently an unrestricted free agent, has not yet announced whether she will return for her 21st WNBA season. With Phoenix undergoing major roster changes, including the acquisition of five-time All-Star Alyssa Thomas, the team is entering a new phase.
What’s Next for Brittney Griner?
Griner averaged 17.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game last season. Now, she looks forward to making an impact with Atlanta and helping the team chase a WNBA title.
With her move to the Dream, Griner enters a new stage of her career, ready to prove herself in a fresh environment while staying true to the talent that made her one of the league’s biggest stars.
