WNBA All-Star center Brittney Griner is embarking on a new chapter in her career by testing the free agent market for the first time. Griner, who has previously re-signed with the Phoenix Mercury since being drafted as the No. 1 pick in 2013, is now taking meetings with multiple teams to explore her options.
Griner's decision to enter free agency comes at a time when the league is seeing a shift towards guards and wings dominating the game, making her presence as a post player even more intriguing to potential suitors.
The opening of Unrivaled in Miami has provided a platform for Griner and other free agents to engage with WNBA executives and teams. The event has attracted a plethora of top unrestricted free agents, including Griner and Courtney Vandersloot, as well as players who may be seeking new opportunities despite being tagged by their current teams.
Players at Unrivaled are utilizing the opportunity to build relationships both on and off the court with star players from various teams. The event has sparked conversations and negotiations among the 36 players present, creating a dynamic environment for potential player movement.
With negotiations officially commencing and contracts set to be signed in February, the upcoming free agency period is expected to be marked by significant player movement. The new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with substantial salary implications set to take effect in 2026 is also influencing players to consider shorter-term deals.
Teams like the Connecticut Sun and the expansion Golden State Valkyries are poised to make significant moves in free agency, with the Sun potentially facing the departure of key players like DeWanna Bonner, Brionna Jones, and Alyssa Thomas. The evolving landscape of the league is prompting players to carefully weigh their options and make decisions that align with their career goals.
Notably absent from Unrivaled is Diana Taurasi, the WNBA's all-time leading scorer, who is deliberating on whether to retire or return for another season, adding further intrigue to the upcoming season.
As the free agency period unfolds, the WNBA is poised for a transformative offseason marked by player movement, strategic signings, and the anticipation of a new era in women's basketball.
