What is Brittney Griner’s net worth and salary?
Brittney Griner is an American professional basketball player who has a net worth of $10 million. Brittney Griner’s peak annual salary was $227,000, which is the WNBA league max. Like other top WNBA players, Britney has periodically played overseas for much larger paydays. For example, in 2014, she made $600,000 to play for a Chinese team for three months. In recent years she has earned around $1.5 million playing in Russia.
Prior to joining the WNBA she was a star player at Baylor University, where she became the only NCAA basketball player to both block 500 shots and score 2,000 points. Beyond the WNBA, Griner helped lead the US women’s basketball team to victory at the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo.
Early Life and High School
Brittney Griner was born on October 18, 1990, in Houston, Texas, as the youngest of four siblings. As a teen, she went to Nimitz High School, where she lettered in basketball and played varsity volleyball as a freshman. In her senior year, Griner helped lead the Nimitz Cougars to the Texas 5A girls’ basketball state championship, where they ultimately fell to Mansfield Summit High School. Griner finished her senior year with 52 dunks, including a single-game record of seven dunks in a game against Aldine High School. Moreover, she set a record for most single-season blocks, with 318. In honor of her achievements, Griner was named a WBCA All-American.
Collegiate Career
In college, Griner played basketball with the Baylor Lady Bears at Baylor University. She immediately established her dominance as a freshman, setting a new single-season record of 223 blocked shots. In late 2009, she posted Baylor’s first-ever triple-double; early the following year, she became only the seventh female player to dunk during a college basketball game. Baylor went on to enter the NCAA Tournament and defeated Tennessee to make the Sweet 16. In the subsequent win against Georgetown, Griner set a new NCAA Tournament record with 14 blocked shots. Advancing to the Elite Eight, Baylor beat Duke, and Griner upped her total tournament blocks to a new record of 35. In the Final Four, Baylor fell to eventual champion Connecticut.
As a sophomore, Griner earned First-Team All-American honors; as a junior, she was named AP Player of the Year and helped Baylor win the Division I Women’s Basketball Championship over Notre Dame. Baylor finished the season undefeated with 40 wins, the most in the history of the NCAA. Griner played her final college game in 2013 in Baylor’s Sweet 16 loss to the University of Louisville.
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Phoenix Mercury
In the 2013 WNBA Draft, Griner was chosen as the first overall pick by the Phoenix Mercury. She went on to have a highly impressive rookie year; in her debut alone, she matched the WNBA career dunk record set by Candace Parker with two. Overall, Griner averaged three blocks per game. She improved her statistics in 2014, averaging 3.7 blocks per game in addition to 15.6 points and eight rebounds. In June, she set a new regular-season single-game WNBA record with 11 blocks. Most significantly, Griner helped the Mercury finish the 2014 season 29-5, breaking the record for most regular-season WNBA wins; the team subsequently swept the Chicago Sky in the WNBA Finals. Griner continued her amazing success in 2015. In the most prolific defensive season in the history of the WNBA, she averaged four blocks per game. The Mercury once again made it to the playoffs, where Griner set a new WNBA playoff record of 11 blocks. Ultimately, the team fell to the Minnesota Lynx.
In 2016, the Mercury made it back to the playoffs, this time advancing to the semifinals; once again, however, they were defeated by the Lynx. Griner had one of the best seasons of her career so far in 2017. In June, she posted a career-high 38 points in a victory over the Indiana Fever. She finished the season as the league leader in scoring with 21.9 points per game. In the playoffs, the Mercury beat the Seattle Storm and the Connecticut Sun to make it to the semifinals; there, they fell to the Los Angeles Sparks. Griner had another strong season in 2018, once again leading the league in blocks and helping the Mercury advance to the playoffs. The following season, she again led the league in blocks and also led the league in scoring for the second time. In the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season, Griner played 12 games before having to leave for personal reasons that remain undisclosed.
During the 2021 season, Griner averaged 20.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists while helping the Mercury to a 19-13 record and the fourth seed in the Western Conference. She went on to score the most points in the playoffs, leading the team to victories over the New York Liberty, Seattle Storm, and the first-seed Las Vegas Aces to reach the WNBA Finals. But the Phoenix Mercury lost to the Chicago Sky in four games.
Offseason Playing
During the WNBA offseason, Griner usually plays abroad. In 2013-14, she played with the WCBA’s Zhejiang Golden Bulls in China; her $600,000 four-month contract with the team was 12 times the amount she made as a rookie with the Phoenix Mercury. For the subsequent 2014-15 and 2015-16 offseasons, Griner played for Russia’s UMMC Ekaterinburg, with which she won consecutive championships. She went on to re-sign with the team for the subsequent three offseasons.
US National Team
In 2016, Griner played as part of the US women’s basketball team at the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. She ultimately earned the gold medal as the team beat Spain 101-72 in the final. Five years later, Griner and the US team once again took gold at the Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Beyond the Olympics, Griner and the US women’s basketball team also won gold medals at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in 2014 and 2018.
Russian Arrest
Brittney Griner was arrested in Russia at Sheremetyevo International Airport in early 2022 when hash oil was allegedly discovered in her luggage. The substance is illegal under both Russian and US federal law. Due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the resulting tensions with the US, many feared the difficulty of getting Griner released.
On July 7, 2022, Brittney appeared in a Russian courtroom and pleaded guilty to drug charges. She was subsequently sentenced to serve more than ten years in prison.
On December 8, 2022, Brittney was released as part of a prisoner swap for convicted arms smuggler Viktor Bout. Bout had served 11 years of a 25-year sentence for attempting to arm terrorists (FBI agents posed as terrorists) who intended to kill Americans.
Personal Life
Griner identifies as lesbian, having come out publicly in early 2013. She is committed to challenging traditional gender roles; through her endorsement deal with Nike, she regularly models clothes branded as menswear.
In 2014, Griner got engaged to fellow WNBA player Glory Johnson. The following year, both of them were arrested on charges of disorderly conduct and assault. Despite this, the pair got married. Shortly after their wedding, Griner and Johnson were suspended by the WNBA for seven games when both pleaded guilty to their disorderly conduct charges. In June of 2015, it was announced that Johnson was pregnant with twins. However, the very next day, Griner filed for an annulment of the marriage on account of alleged duress and fraud. The divorce was finalized in 2016. Two years after that, Griner got engaged to Cherelle Watson, whom she subsequently married in 2019.
Brittney Griner is calling for better traveling accommodations for WNBA players after an incident in June 2023 in which she was harassed by a YouTuber when walking through a Dallas airport.
Girls’ Swim Team Fights to Stop Trans Athlete by Refusing to Compete Against Biological Male Opponent: ‘We Want a Level Playing Field’
The issue of transgender athletes competing in sports aligned with their gender identity has become a highly contentious topic. Recently, a girls’ swim team has decided to refuse competition against Lia Thomas, a transgender athlete, stating, “We want a level playing field.” This decision has ignited a debate encompassing fairness, inclusion, and the integrity of women’s sports. Examining the perspectives and implications of this situation can provide a nuanced understanding of the broader conversation around transgender athletes in competitive sports.
Lia Thomas, a transgender woman and swimmer, has been at the center of this controversy. Thomas, who previously competed in men’s swimming events before transitioning, has faced backlash from various quarters, including fellow athletes, coaches, and sports organizations. Critics argue that her participation in women’s swimming events is unfair due to physiological advantages attributed to her male puberty. Conversely, supporters emphasize the importance of inclusivity and respect for gender identity, advocating for Thomas’ right to compete in women’s sports.
The girls’ swim team’s refusal to compete against Thomas is a significant and provocative stance. Their primary argument revolves around the concept of a “level playing field.” They contend that Thomas’ participation creates an inherent advantage that undermines fair competition. This sentiment reflects a broader concern about the impact of transgender athletes on women’s sports, where physical advantages stemming from male puberty could potentially alter competitive dynamics.
The principle of fairness is central to this debate. Proponents of the girls’ swim team’s decision argue that allowing transgender women like Thomas to compete in women’s sports contradicts the core values of fair competition. They assert that physical differences, such as muscle mass, bone density, and endurance capabilities, provide transgender women with an edge over cisgender women, regardless of hormone therapy or transition period.
On the other hand, advocates for transgender inclusion in sports highlight the importance of respecting gender identity and ensuring that all athletes have the opportunity to compete. They argue that exclusion based on gender identity is discriminatory and that sports organizations should develop inclusive policies that balance fairness with inclusivity. This perspective emphasizes that sports should reflect broader societal values of diversity and acceptance.
The refusal of the girls’ swim team to compete against Lia Thomas underscores a broader tension within women’s sports. Balancing the rights of transgender athletes with the need to maintain fair competition is a complex and multifaceted issue. Sports governing bodies are grappling with creating policies that accommodate both inclusivity and competitive equity. The NCAA, for example, has established guidelines for transgender athletes, but these guidelines remain a topic of intense debate and scrutiny.
Finding a resolution that satisfies all stakeholders is challenging. One potential approach is to develop more nuanced eligibility criteria for transgender athletes, considering factors such as hormone levels, transition timelines, and physical attributes. Another solution could be creating open or inclusive categories where athletes of different gender identities can compete without impacting traditional categories. However, these solutions require careful consideration and collaboration among athletes, sports organizations, medical experts, and advocacy groups.
The decision of the girls’ swim team to refuse competition against Lia Thomas reflects the broader societal and ethical dilemmas surrounding transgender athletes in sports. Balancing fairness, inclusivity, and respect for gender identity is a complex challenge that requires thoughtful dialogue and policy development. As the debate continues, it is essential to consider the perspectives and rights of all athletes, striving to create a sporting environment that upholds the values of fair competition while embracing diversity and inclusion.
Angel Reese Considers to Leave the US for Life: “WOKE COUNTRY! They always mock me and make me the butt of the joke. I’m Not Getting Any Respect I Deserve Here”
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In a surprising turn of events, Angel Reese, one of the most prominent figures in women’s basketball, has announced her decision to leave the United States permanently. Reese, who has been a standout player both in college and professionally, cited a lack of respect and appreciation for her talents and efforts as the primary reasons for her departure. This decision has sent shockwaves through the sports community and has sparked a wide-ranging discussion about the treatment of athletes, particularly women of color, in the United States.
Angel Reese’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. From her early days dominating high school basketball courts to her standout performances at the University of Maryland, Reese has consistently proven herself to be an exceptional talent. Her combination of size, skill, and athleticism made her a force to be reckoned with on the court, and she quickly became one of the most talked-about players in women’s college basketball.
Reese’s transition to the professional level was seamless. She was drafted into the WNBA and made an immediate impact, showcasing her abilities and earning accolades from fans and analysts alike. Despite her on-court success, Reese has often spoken about the challenges she faces off the court, including the lack of recognition and respect she feels she deserves.
Reese’s decision to leave the United States is rooted in her experiences both as an athlete and as an individual. In a heartfelt statement, she expressed her frustration with the way she has been treated and the lack of appreciation for her contributions to the sport.
“I have given my all to this game, and yet I feel like I am not respected or valued here,” Reese said. “I love basketball, and I love competing, but I can’t continue to do it in a place where I don’t feel respected. It’s time for me to move on and find a place where I am appreciated for who I am and what I bring to the table.”
Reese’s statement highlights a sentiment that is all too familiar for many athletes, particularly women of color, who often feel marginalized and undervalued despite their achievements. Her decision to leave the country underscores the need for a broader conversation about how athletes are treated and what can be done to create a more inclusive and respectful environment.
The announcement of Reese’s departure has elicited a wide range of reactions from the sports community. Fellow athletes, coaches, and fans have expressed their support for Reese and their disappointment with the circumstances that led to her decision.
WNBA star Sue Bird tweeted, “Angel Reese is an incredible talent and an even better person. It’s heartbreaking that she feels she has to leave the country to find the respect she deserves. We need to do better.”
Coaches who have worked with Reese have also spoken out, emphasizing her dedication and the impact she has had on the sport. “Angel has been a tremendous player and a leader both on and off the court,” said her college coach Brenda Frese. “Her decision to leave is a loss for us all, and it should serve as a wake-up call about how we treat our athletes.”
Reese’s decision to leave the United States raises important questions about the treatment of athletes, particularly women of color, and the broader cultural issues that contribute to their experiences. Her departure highlights the need for systemic change and a reassessment of how athletes are valued and supported.
For many, Reese’s decision is a reflection of the ongoing struggles that women, and especially women of color, face in gaining the recognition and respect they deserve. Despite significant progress in recent years, there remains a persistent gap in how these athletes are perceived and treated compared to their male counterparts.
As Angel Reese prepares to embark on the next chapter of her life and career, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence and resilience. Her decision to leave the United States is a powerful statement about the need for change and the importance of creating an environment where all athletes feel respected and valued.
Reese has not yet announced where she plans to continue her career, but there is no doubt that she will continue to excel wherever she goes. Her talent and determination will undoubtedly make her a valuable asset to any team, and her departure from the United States will be keenly felt by the basketball community.
In the meantime, Reese’s decision serves as a reminder of the work that remains to be done to create a more inclusive and respectful sports culture. It is a call to action for fans, coaches, and organizations to reflect on how they can better support and uplift athletes, ensuring that they feel valued and appreciated for their contributions.
Angel Reese’s decision to leave the United States permanently is a significant moment in the world of sports. It underscores the ongoing challenges that athletes, particularly women of color, face in gaining the respect and recognition they deserve. Her departure is a loss for the basketball community, but it is also a powerful statement about the need for change.
As Reese moves forward with her career, her story will continue to inspire and challenge those who remain in the United States. It is a reminder that talent and dedication deserve to be met with respect and appreciation, and that the work to create a more inclusive and equitable sports culture is far from over.
Angel Reese’s journey is far from over, and her impact on the sport will continue to be felt for years to come. Her decision to leave the United States is a bold and courageous step, one that highlights the importance of standing up for oneself and seeking out environments where one feels valued and respected. The sports community would do well to heed her message and work towards a future where all athletes can thrive and be celebrated for their contributions.
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