The Phoenix Mercury’s return of Brittney Griner is a much anticipated and celebrated event by the WNBA community. Griner was arrested in February of 2022 in a Moscow airport for possession of vape cartridges containing hashish oil and to a two-year term in a Russian penal colony.
However, Griner was released from prison in December 2020 as part of a prisoner swap with Russia. Griner has re-signed with the Mercury for the 2023 season, where she will look to reclaim her spot as one of the top players in the WNBA. Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, and eight-time WNBA All-Star, has long been one of the league’s most recognizable and talented players.
The Mercury will be looking to use Griner’s return to help them reclaim the WNBA championship title.
The Mercury’s General Manager, Jim Pitman, said of Griner’s return,
“It’s a great day for all of us to announce that Brittney Griner has officially signed to play for the Mercury in 2023. We missed BG every day that she was gone and, while basketball was not our primary concern, her presence on the floor, in our locker room, around our organization, and within our community was greatly missed.”
Griner’s return to the Mercury significantly boosts the team and the entire WNBA. The 32-year-old center is a three-time WNBA champion, and her presence on the court will be a significant asset for the Mercury. Her return will also significantly boost the team’s morale, as Griner’s leadership and presence in the locker room will be invaluable.
The Mercury begins their 2023 season on May 19th against the Los Angeles Sparks, with their home opener on May 21st against the Chicago Sky. The team plans to recognize Griner’s return to the club before their game against the Sky in what is sure to be an emotional moment for the crowd.
Griner last played for the Mercury in the 2021 season, where she had one of the best years of her career and averaged 20.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over 30 games