Brittney Griner isn’t just a dominant force in American basketball — she’s one of the most influential athletes in the world. Known for her powerhouse performance with the Phoenix Mercury (WNBA), her shot-blocking records, Olympic achievements, and global presence, Griner has rewritten what’s possible for women’s basketball.
But her story extends far beyond the court — from overcoming bullying to advocating for LGBTQ+ youth, navigating international controversies, and becoming one of the highest-earning WNBA players in history.
As of 2024, Brittney Griner’s net worth is estimated at $17 million, built through WNBA contracts, overseas basketball salaries, endorsements, and public advocacy.
This pillar guide breaks down everything you need to know about Brittney Griner — her early life, career, achievements, wealth growth, and her widely reported 2022 Russian detention.
Brittney Griner’s Quick Profile
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Brittney Yevette Griner |
| Date of Birth | October 17, 1990 |
| Birthplace | Houston, Texas, USA |
| Profession | Professional Basketball Player (WNBA) |
| Team | Phoenix Mercury |
| Height | 6 ft 9 in |
| Net Worth | $17 million |
| Salary (2022–2023) | $227,900 (WNBA) |
| Notable Titles | 2× Olympic Gold Medalist, WNBA Champion, NCAA Record Holder |
| Sexual Orientation | Lesbian |
| Advocacy | LGBTQ+ Rights, Youth Support, Social Justice |
Early Life: Challenges, Identity & Discovering Her Power
Brittney Griner was born in Houston, Texas, as the youngest of four siblings — Pier, Decarlo, and Shkera. Her upbringing was marked by:
✔ Early Bullying & Identity Struggles
- Griner openly came out as a lesbian in high school.
- She faced bullying, ridicule, and emotional challenges.
- Instead of being defeated, she developed resilience that shaped her career and advocacy later.
✔ Supportive Yet Structured Family
Her father, Raymond Griner, a former sheriff and Vietnam veteran, encouraged discipline, while her mother provided emotional support.
✔ Start of Her Athletic Journey
- Attended Nimitz High School, where she played basketball and volleyball.
- Trained with the boys’ football team to build strength and stamina.
- Led her team to the Texas 5A Girls’ State Championship.
- Earned national attention and became a WBCA All-American.
Her size, athleticism, and determination made her a rising star long before college.
College Career at Baylor University: The Birth of a Legend
Griner attended Baylor University, where her career exploded:
🏆 Career-Defining Achievements at Baylor
- Blocked 223 shots in her freshman year — a BAMN historical NCAA record.
- Helped Baylor win the Division I National Championship (2012).
Named:
- AP Player of the Year
- Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four
- WBCA All-American (multiple times)
Her Playing Style
She became widely known as:
- A dominant defender
- A powerful dunker
- The most unstoppable center in NCAA women’s basketball history
Her Baylor years elevated her into national prominence — and sealed her path to the WNBA.
WNBA Career: Championship Wins, Scoring Titles & Global Fame
Brittney Griner was drafted as the #1 overall pick in 2013 by Phoenix Mercury— instantly becoming the face of the franchise.
Major WNBA Achievements
- WNBA Champion (2014)
- WNBA Scoring Champion (2017)
- Multiple-time WNBA All-Star
- Led the league in blocked shots for several seasons
- Only NCAA player with 2,000 points + 500 blocks
Olympic Dominance
- Gold Medal – 2016 Rio Olympics
- Gold Medal – 2020 Tokyo Olympics
Her contributions helped strengthen the global visibility of women’s basketball.
Overseas Career: The $1.5 Million Russia Contract
Because WNBA salaries are relatively low, many athletes play overseas.
Griner played for the Russian Premier League, earning $1.5 million per season — nearly 6× her WNBA salary.
This lucrative contract attracted global media interest and became part of the context surrounding her 2022 detainment.
Net Worth Breakdown: How Brittney Griner Built $17 Million
As of 2024, Brittney Griner’s net worth = $17 million.
Income Sources
- ✔ WNBA Salary
- ✔ Endorsements (Nike, BodyArmor, and others)
- ✔ Overseas Basketball (Russia) – $1.5 million per season
- ✔ Public appearances & speaking engagements
- ✔ Partnerships & brand deals
WNBA Salary Facts
- Griner earned $227,900 in 2022 — the maximum WNBA salary.
- She remains one of the most highly compensated WNBA players.
Personal Life: Sexuality, Marriage & Relationships
✔ Coming Out
Griner came out as a lesbian publicly in 2013 and became a powerful LGBTQ advocate.
✔ Relationship with Glory Johnson
- Engaged: 2014
- Married: 2015
- Both arrested for domestic violence in 2014
- Johnson became pregnant with twins
- Divorced: 2016
✔ Family Support & Advocacy
Griner actively supports:
- LGBTQ+ youth
- Anti-bullying movements
- Equality and mental health awareness
Russia Detention: What Happened and Why It Made Global Headlines
On March 5, 2022, Griner was arrested at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport. Russian authorities claimed:
- She possessed vape cartridges with hashish oil, illegal under Russian law
- Charges carried a possible 10-year prison sentence
Why Was She in Russia?
She was playing for the Russian Premier League, where she earned $1.5M per season.
International Response
- The U.S. government labeled her “wrongfully detained”
- WNBA, NBA, and global athletes advocated for her release
Her case triggered discussions about:
- Athlete pay gaps
- Geopolitical tensions
- Athlete safety abroad
Her detention — and eventual release in a prisoner swap — became one of the biggest sports news stories of 2022.
Conclusion
Brittney Griner is far more than a legendary basketball player — she’s a symbol of resilience, advocacy, and global influence. Her journey from bullied teenager to Olympic champion, WNBA superstar, humanitarian, and international headline figure shows the depth of her impact.
With a net worth of $17 million, unmatched athletic accomplishments, and global recognition, Griner remains one of the most important figures in modern women’s sports.
FAQs
1. Who is the highest-paid WNBA player?
As of 2024, Jewell Lloyd is the highest-paid WNBA player, earning approximately $241,984 per season.
2. How much money has Brittney Griner made?
Her estimated net worth is $17 million, including WNBA salary, endorsements, and overseas earnings.
3. How much does it cost to buy a WNBA team?
WNBA teams today are valued at $40–$60 million, depending on market and franchise history.
4. Why was Brittney Griner detained in Russia?
She was accused of carrying vape cartridges containing hashish oil — illegal in Russia.
5. How tall is Brittney Griner?
She is 6 ft 9 in — one of the tallest players in WNBA history.
