Brittney Griner is turning the page on her WNBA career, leaving the Phoenix Mercury after more than a decade to sign with the Atlanta Dream.
The 6-foot-9 star confirmed her decision in an Instagram video, calling free agency an exciting but challenging process.
“I was able to find where I wanted to go,” Griner said. “It was tough leaving what I’ve known my whole career, but this is a fresh start.”
Her agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, told the Associated Press that Griner will ink a one-year deal with Atlanta once free agency officially opens on Feb. 1.
The short-term contract allows flexibility ahead of an expected new collective bargaining agreement in 2026 that could significantly raise salaries.
Griner, 34, had spent her entire career in Phoenix since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2013.
She missed the 2022 season after being detained in Russia for nearly 10 months before being released in a high-profile prisoner swap.
Last season, she averaged 17.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks. Now, she joins a young and promising Dream squad featuring Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray.
Atlanta, which reached the playoffs last season, is looking to take the next step. With Griner in the mix, they just might.