Brittney Griner’s free agency decision has sent shockwaves through the WNBA, as the 10-time All-Star leaves the Phoenix Mercury after 11 seasons to join the Atlanta Dream. The announcement, revealed via Instagram, not only confirmed her new team but also teased an upcoming docuseries, Outside the Paint, adding to the buzz surrounding her next chapter.
A Major Free Agency Move
Griner, a two-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and a dominant force in the league, brings her elite scoring and defensive prowess to an Atlanta team eager to return to playoff contention. The Dream struggled in 2024 with a 15-25 record, but with the addition of Griner, star guard Rhyne Howard, veteran guard Jordin Canada, and newly appointed head coach Karl Smesko, the team appears to be reshaping its identity.
The move marks one of the most significant free agency signings in recent WNBA history. While other teams reportedly pursued Griner, Atlanta ultimately secured the 6’9” center, positioning themselves as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference.
Fan and Player Reactions
The news ignited excitement across social media, with fans, media figures, and fellow players celebrating Griner’s arrival in Atlanta. WNBA broadcaster LaChina Robinson welcomed Griner and her wife, Cherelle, to the city, while Unrivaled Basketball—a new women’s league where Griner will also compete—posted their support with a crown emoji. Cherelle Griner expressed her pride with celebratory emojis, further amplifying the joyous moment.
Beyond Basketball: Griner’s Continued Impact
Griner’s influence extends well beyond the court. Since her high-profile detainment in Russia in 2022 and subsequent release in a prisoner exchange, she has become an outspoken advocate for human rights, social justice, and voting rights. She actively supports the Bring Our Families Home campaign, advocating for the release of wrongfully detained Americans overseas.Her commitment to activism was evident throughout the 2024 season, where she and her Mercury teammates championed voting initiatives. Now in Atlanta, Griner’s presence could further elevate the Dream’s involvement in community-driven initiatives.
Her commitment to activism was evident throughout the 2024 season, where she and her Mercury teammates championed voting initiatives. Now in Atlanta, Griner’s presence could further elevate the Dream’s involvement in community-driven initiatives.Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead
With Griner joining forces with Rhyne Howard, Atlanta gains a formidable duo capable of turning the franchise into a playoff contender. Her experience and leadership will be invaluable to a young Dream roster looking to establish itself among the WNBA’s elite.
As anticipation builds for both the upcoming WNBA season and her Outside the Paint docuseries, it’s clear that Brittney Griner’s next chapter is about more than just basketball. Her journey—marked by resilience, advocacy, and excellence—continues to inspire on and off the court.
