Brittney Griner is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is a widely recognized and accomplished athlete who has achieved remarkable success both domestically and internationally.
Brittney Griner was born on October 18, 1990, in Houston, Texas. She began her basketball career at Nimitz High School in her hometown, where she quickly gained attention for her exceptional height and athleticism. Griner led her high school team to three consecutive state championships and was named the National Player of the Year by several publications.
After graduating from high school, Griner attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where she continued to excel on the basketball court. During her four years at Baylor, Griner led the Lady Bears to a national championship in 2012 and earned numerous individual accolades, including being named the Naismith College Player of the Year twice.
Who is Brittney Griner?
Brittney Griner is an accomplished American basketball player.
- WNBA star
- Olympic gold medalist
- Two-time NCAA champion
- Naismith College Player of the Year
- Scoring and blocks leader
- Social justice advocate
- Detained in Russia
Griner's remarkable career and advocacy work have made her an inspiration to fans worldwide.
WNBA star
Brittney Griner's impact on the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) has been nothing short of transformative.
- Game-changing presence:
Griner's combination of size, athleticism, and skill has revolutionized the way the game is played. Her ability to dominate both offensively and defensively has forced teams to adjust their strategies and has made her one of the most feared players in the league.
- Record-breaking achievements:
Griner holds numerous WNBA records, including being the league's all-time leading scorer and shot blocker. She is also the only player in WNBA history to have won both the scoring title and the Defensive Player of the Year award in the same season.
- Elevated the WNBA's profile:
Griner's success and popularity have helped to raise the profile of the WNBA and attract new fans to the sport. She has become a household name and has inspired a generation of young girls to pursue basketball.
- Advocate for social justice:
Griner has used her platform as a WNBA star to speak out against social injustice and advocate for equality. She has been a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement and has spoken out against police brutality and racial discrimination.
Griner's contributions to the WNBA and her commitment to social justice have made her one of the most influential and respected players in the league.
Olympic gold medalist
Brittney Griner's Olympic journey began in 2012, when she was selected to represent the United States at the London Games. Griner made an immediate impact, starting all eight games and averaging 12.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game. She was a key contributor to the team's gold medal victory, and her performance earned her a spot on the All-Tournament Team.
Griner returned to the Olympics in 2016, this time as one of the most experienced players on the team. She once again started all eight games and averaged 10.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game. Griner's defense was particularly impressive, as she helped to shut down some of the world's best post players. She was once again a key contributor to the team's gold medal victory, and she was named to the All-Tournament Team for the second time.
Griner's Olympic success is a testament to her skill, athleticism, and leadership. She is one of the most dominant players in the world, and she has helped the United States win two consecutive gold medals.
In addition to her Olympic achievements, Griner has also won two FIBA World Championships with the United States. She is one of the most decorated basketball players in history, and she is widely considered to be one of the greatest players of all time.
Griner's Olympic success has not only brought her individual glory, but it has also helped to raise the profile of women's basketball around the world.
Two-time NCAA champion
Brittney Griner's collegiate career at Baylor University was nothing short of dominant. She led the Lady Bears to two NCAA championships, in 2012 and 2013, and was named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player both years.
- Unstoppable force:
Griner was a force of nature in the NCAA. She averaged 23.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 4.0 blocks per game during her four years at Baylor. She was virtually unstoppable in the paint, and her combination of size, strength, and athleticism made her a nightmare for opposing defenses.
- Defensive anchor:
In addition to her offensive prowess, Griner was also a defensive force. She was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year three times and was a four-time All-Big 12 Defensive Team selection. Griner's ability to protect the rim and alter shots made her one of the most feared defenders in the country.
- Record-breaker:
Griner set numerous NCAA records during her time at Baylor. She is the NCAA's all-time leading scorer and shot blocker, and she also holds the record for most career dunks by a woman. Griner's dominance was such that she was often compared to some of the greatest men's college basketball players of all time.
- Inspiring leader:
Griner was not only a dominant player, but she was also a great leader. She was a vocal and supportive teammate, and she always led by example. Griner's leadership was instrumental in Baylor's success, and she helped to create a winning culture that continues to this day.
Griner's two NCAA championships and her individual accolades make her one of the most successful college basketball players of all time. She is a true pioneer who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Naismith College Player of the Year
Brittney Griner is one of the most decorated college basketball players of all time, and her two Naismith College Player of the Year awards are a testament to her dominance. Griner won the award in both 2012 and 2013, becoming just the second player in NCAA history to win the award twice.
In her junior season, Griner led Baylor to a 34-3 record and the NCAA championship. She averaged 23.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 4.1 blocks per game, and she was named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player. Griner's dominance was such that she was often compared to some of the greatest men's college basketball players of all time.
Griner followed up her junior season with an even more impressive senior campaign. She averaged 25.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.0 blocks per game, and she led Baylor to a perfect 40-0 record and another NCAA championship. Griner was once again named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, and she also won the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award.
Griner's two Naismith College Player of the Year awards are a testament to her incredible talent and dominance. She is one of the most decorated players in NCAA history, and she is widely considered to be one of the greatest women's basketball players of all time.
Griner's success at the collegiate level paved the way for her successful WNBA career and her Olympic gold medals. She is a true pioneer who has left an indelible mark on the sport of basketball.
Scoring and blocks leader
Brittney Griner is one of the most dominant scorers and shot blockers in the history of women's basketball.
- Unstoppable scorer:
Griner is a walking bucket. She has a variety of moves that she can use to score from anywhere on the court. She is also an excellent free throw shooter, which makes her even more difficult to defend.
- Elite shot blocker:
Griner's length and athleticism make her an elite shot blocker. She is able to alter shots from all over the court, and she often sends opponents' shots back into the stands.
- WNBA records:
Griner holds the WNBA records for career points and career blocks. She is also the only player in WNBA history to have won both the scoring title and the Defensive Player of the Year award in the same season.
- Olympic dominance:
Griner has also been a dominant scorer and shot blocker for the United States Olympic team. She is the all-time leading scorer and shot blocker in Olympic women's basketball history.
Griner's scoring and shot-blocking ability has made her one of the most feared players in the world. She is a matchup nightmare for opposing teams, and she is always a threat to put up big numbers.
Social justice advocate
Brittney Griner is not only a dominant basketball player, but she is also a vocal advocate for social justice. She has used her platform to speak out against racism, homophobia, and transphobia.
Griner has been a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement. She has spoken out against police brutality and racial discrimination, and she has participated in protests and demonstrations. Griner has also used her social media platforms to amplify the voices of other activists and to raise awareness about racial injustice.
Griner is also a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. She came out as a lesbian in 2013, and she has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights ever since. Griner has spoken out against homophobia and transphobia, and she has used her platform to promote LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance.
Griner's activism has made her a target for some, but she has remained steadfast in her commitment to social justice. She is a role model for young people around the world, and she is an inspiration to everyone who believes in equality and justice.
Griner's advocacy for social justice has earned her praise from many, including former President Barack Obama. Obama called Griner a "role model" and a "champion for equality." Griner's activism has also helped to raise awareness about important social issues and to inspire others to take action.
Detained in Russia
In February 2022, Brittney Griner was detained at a Moscow airport after Russian authorities found cannabis oil vape cartridges in her luggage. Griner was charged with drug smuggling, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
Griner's detention has been widely condemned by the United States government and by many athletes and celebrities. The U.S. State Department has called for Griner's immediate release, and President Joe Biden has spoken with Griner's wife, Cherelle, to offer his support.
Griner's trial began in July 2022. She pleaded guilty to the charges against her, but she said that she had no intention of breaking the law. Griner said that she had been prescribed medical cannabis in the United States to treat chronic pain, and that she had accidentally packed the vape cartridges in her luggage.
On August 4, 2022, Griner was sentenced to nine years in a Russian penal colony. The sentence was widely seen as excessive and politically motivated. The U.S. government has called for Griner's immediate release, and there are ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Russia to secure her freedom.
Griner's detention in Russia has been a difficult time for her and her family. However, she has remained strong and resilient throughout the ordeal. Griner has said that she is hopeful that she will be able to return home to the United States soon.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Brittney Griner:
Question 1: Who is Brittney Griner?
Answer: Brittney Griner is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is a widely recognized and accomplished athlete who has achieved remarkable success both domestically and internationally.
Question 2: What is Brittney Griner's height?
Answer: Brittney Griner is 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters) tall.
Question 3: Where did Brittney Griner go to college?
Answer: Brittney Griner attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where she played basketball for the Lady Bears from 2009 to 2013.
Question 4: How many Olympic gold medals does Brittney Griner have?
Answer: Brittney Griner has two Olympic gold medals. She won gold with the United States women's basketball team at the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Question 5: What is Brittney Griner's nickname?
Answer: Brittney Griner's nickname is "BG."
Question 6: What is Brittney Griner's current status?
Answer: Brittney Griner is currently detained in Russia on drug charges. She was arrested at a Moscow airport in February 2022 after Russian authorities found cannabis oil vape cartridges in her luggage. Griner's trial began in July 2022, and she pleaded guilty to the charges against her. On August 4, 2022, she was sentenced to nine years in a Russian penal colony.
Question 7: How can I support Brittney Griner?
Answer: There are a number of ways to support Brittney Griner. You can write letters to her, donate to organizations that are working to secure her release, and spread awareness about her case on social media.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about Brittney Griner. She is an accomplished athlete and a role model for many people around the world. We hope that she will be able to return home to the United States soon.
In addition to the information in the FAQ, here are some additional tips for learning more about Brittney Griner:
Tips
Here are some tips for learning more about Brittney Griner:
Tip 1: Watch her play basketball.
The best way to appreciate Brittney Griner's skills and athleticism is to watch her play basketball. You can watch WNBA games on ESPN, CBS Sports Network, and NBA TV. You can also find highlights of Griner's games on YouTube.
Tip 2: Read her autobiography.
In 2014, Brittney Griner published her autobiography, "In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court." The book provides an intimate look at Griner's life, from her childhood to her rise to stardom in the WNBA and the Olympics.
Tip 3: Follow her on social media.
Brittney Griner is active on social media, and she often posts about her life, her career, and her activism. You can follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Tip 4: Attend a WNBA game.
If you have the opportunity, attending a WNBA game is a great way to see Brittney Griner play in person. You can find the Phoenix Mercury's schedule on the WNBA website.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
These are just a few tips for learning more about Brittney Griner. She is a fascinating and accomplished athlete, and her story is an inspiration to many people around the world.
Brittney Griner is a role model for many people, both on and off the court. She is a talented athlete, a vocal advocate for social justice, and a strong and resilient person. We hope that she will be able to return home to the United States soon and continue to inspire people around the world.
Conclusion
Brittney Griner is an accomplished basketball player, a vocal advocate for social justice, and a strong and resilient person. She is a role model for many people around the world, and her story is an inspiration.
Griner has achieved remarkable success in her basketball career. She is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, a two-time NCAA champion, and a seven-time WNBA All-Star. She is also the WNBA's all-time leading scorer and shot blocker. Griner's dominance on the court has made her one of the most recognizable and respected players in the world.
In addition to her basketball accomplishments, Griner is also a vocal advocate for social justice. She has spoken out against racism, homophobia, and transphobia. Griner has also used her platform to amplify the voices of other activists and to raise awareness about important social issues.
Griner's activism has made her a target for some, but she has remained steadfast in her commitment to social justice. She is a role model for young people around the world, and she is an inspiration to everyone who believes in equality and justice.
In February 2022, Griner was detained in Russia on drug charges. She was sentenced to nine years in a Russian penal colony. Griner's detention has been widely condemned by the United States government and by many athletes and celebrities. The U.S. government is currently negotiating with Russia to secure Griner's release.
We hope that Brittney Griner will be able to return home to the United States soon. She is a role model, an inspiration, and a true champion.