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Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner is embracing a new chapter in her life, both on and off the court. As she prepares for the arrival of her first child, Griner revealed that motherhood is changing her perspective on the game, particularly regarding fouls and technicals.
Griner, known for her dominance in the paint, is now balancing her competitive spirit with the responsibilities of impending motherhood. In July, she and her wife Cherelle will welcome their first son, Bash Raymond Griner. The joyous occasion is a stark contrast to the tumultuous period she endured in 2022 when she was detained in Russia.
Griner believes that becoming a mother will positively impact her performance on the court this season.
“Looking up and seeing my wife and our little baby — it’s definitely going to make me think twice about getting a tech because now I got these eyes on me,” she said, as reported by Violeta Trevizo of Arizona’s Family.
The support from her family and fans, who stood by her during her time in prison, has been a driving force for her renewed outlook.
Griner’s connection with the fans is deeply personal. “This season, just putting on this jersey means something more, especially with everything that I’ve been through and how the Valley has been there for me,” she said.
Griner’s new memoir, “Coming Home,” details the experience of her imprisonment. She spent 10 months in a Russian prison after cannabis vape cartridges were found in her luggage at a Russian airport. Her eventual release, part of a prisoner swap for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, was a significant relief for her family and fans.
Since returning to Phoenix, Griner has been working hard to regain her form and is excited for the new WNBA season.
“I’m doing good. I’m great, actually,” the nine-time All-Star said.
Injury delays Brittany Griner's 2024 season start
Despite her enthusiasm for the upcoming season, her start has been postponed due to an injury. Griner had to miss the WNBA season opener against the Las Vegas Aces ay 14 because of a fracture in her left foot. She will be re-evaluated in the coming weeks, but for now, the team will have to cope without their star center.
Her absence is a blow to the Mercury. She was instrumental in keeping the team competitive during a challenging 2023 season, averaging 27.6 minutes per game and contributing 17.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. Her shooting efficiency was particularly notable, with a field goal percentage of 52.6%.
The Mercury’s new coach, Nate Tibbetts, faces a tough task in Griner’s absence. The team is aiming to rebound from a disappointing season and make a push for postseason contention. The defending champions, Aces, will be without Candace Parker, who retired, but they remain a formidable opponent.
