MIAMI — Brittney Griner is excited about the chance to play again during the WNBA offseason, this time opting not to go overseas.
The towering 6-foot-9 WNBA All-Star has declared that she will not play internationally anymore, except for representing USA Basketball. This decision follows her harrowing experience of spending 10 months in a Russian prison last year after authorities discovered vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage.
Griner is set to participate in the new Unrivaled 3-on-3 league based in Miami, which kicks off Friday night and will run until mid-March.
“I feel like something was missing in my offseason; I was used to playing year-round,” Griner shared. “I wanted to return to working year-round. This will help me stay fresh and get ready for when the WNBA season comes back around.”
She is not alone in this endeavor. Numerous fellow WNBA athletes are also seizing the opportunity to supplement their incomes while remaining closer to their families and friends. Griner joins 36 other WNBA players in the Unrivaled league, many of whom express that returning to play overseas feels unappealing—especially if this new league continues to flourish.
“We want there to be more choices available,” said Napheesa Collier, co-founder of Unrivaled. “Our goal isn’t to eliminate overseas options, but to cultivate alternatives for players. It can be challenging for my family at this stage in my life, so I won’t say I’ll never go back.”
Prior to 2021, the Minnesota Lynx All-Star had played in Europe during the WNBA offseason but has since chosen to remain stateside. Other players are echoing similar sentiments about avoiding international play.
“It would be tough to return overseas,” said Kayla McBride, who has spent considerable time playing professionally in Turkey during the offseason. “Especially with Fenerbahce; it has played a significant role in my life and career.”
Unrivaled is reportedly offering salaries comparable to those of many overseas leagues, along with the added reliability of timely payments—a luxury often lacking in foreign leagues.
“Many of us are not accustomed to getting paid on time overseas, so it’s been incredibly nice,” remarked Azura Stevens. “Knowing that we are being treated fairly and that everything promised by Unrivaled is delivered has been very reassuring.”
Courtney Williams had initially planned to return to China for the offseason until Unrivaled approached her. She stated that the league’s offer to match her earnings from China made it an easy choice.
“I’m at a point where I can’t afford to leave any money on the table,” Williams joked.
On a more serious note, she added that playing in the United States carries its own significance.
“You want to be home. It’s vital to play in front of your family and friends,” she explained. “After a game, you want to be able to relax in a place where you feel comfortable.”
Chelsea Gray, who has had substantial overseas playing experience, acknowledges some benefits of international play.
“There’s value in going overseas, as it offers the chance to play a different style of basketball and travel,” she said. “I’ve developed different facets of my identity as an athlete and as an individual through those overseas experiences.”
Following the conclusion of her WNBA season with the Phoenix Mercury, Griner devoted her time to her infant son, Bash, and her wife, Cherelle. Now, she is ready to step out of her comfort zone and take on the new league’s challenges.
“It’s going to push me to play differently. I’ve been working to evolve my game, not just sticking to the low post,” Griner stated. “I’m looking forward to expanding my skills and showcasing my versatility, and I’ll return to Phoenix in the best shape ever.”
