Brittney Griner: Did get banned from the wnba| Why was suspended

Introduction

Brittney Griner, one of the most iconic figures in women’s basketball, has always been in the spotlight — both for her extraordinary on-court skills and her off-court controversies. A dominant force for the Phoenix Mercury, Griner’s career has been marked by accolades, Olympic medals, and a powerful voice for social justice. But in recent times, fans and critics alike have been buzzing with a question: Did Brittney Griner get banned from the WNBA? Why was she suspended?

Let’s dive into the full story behind Brittney Griner’s alleged suspension, the truth about her WNBA status, and the broader context that has shaped her journey.

Who Is Brittney Griner?

Brittney Yevette Griner is an American professional basketball player born on October 18, 1990. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches tall, Griner plays the center position for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA and is known for her shot-blocking, dunking ability, and rebounding dominance.

Griner’s resume includes:

• WNBA Champion (2014)

• 8× WNBA All-Star (2013–2015, 2017–2019, 2021, 2022)

• 2× Olympic Gold Medalist (2016, 2020)

• 3× NCAA Champion with Baylor University

• AP Player of the Year (2012)

Her impact goes beyond stats — she’s also been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and criminal justice reform.

Why the Rumors About Her Being Banned?

The confusion about Brittney Griner being banned or suspended from the WNBA largely stems from her high-profile detainment in Russia in 2022. On February 17, 2022, Griner was arrested at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport for allegedly carrying cannabis oil cartridges in her luggage. The incident quickly escalated into an international issue due to ongoing political tensions between Russia and the United States.

Key Events in the Russia Case:

• Arrest Date: February 17, 2022

• Charges: Possession of cannabis oil — illegal in Russia

• Sentence: 9 years in a Russian penal colony

• Release Date: December 8, 2022, as part of a U.S.-Russia prisoner swap for arms dealer Viktor Bout

Because she was unable to play during the WNBA season, many fans assumed she was banned or suspended, but in reality, her absence was due to incarceration, not a disciplinary action from the WNBA.

Did Brittney Griner Get Suspended by the WNBA?

Short Answer: No, Brittney Griner Was Not Suspended by the WNBA.

There is no official record from the WNBA stating that Brittney Griner was suspended due to conduct violations. Her time away from the game was involuntary and tied to legal proceedings abroad — not related to any WNBA or NBA-imposed sanctions.

Upon her return to the United States, the WNBA and Phoenix Mercury welcomed her back with open arms. Griner resumed her professional career in the 2023 WNBA season and was selected for the 2023 WNBA All-Star Game.

Public Reaction and Media Coverage

Griner’s detainment and eventual release attracted international headlines and emotional responses from fans, athletes, and human rights organizations. The WNBA and NBA players continuously advocated for her release, wearing “We Are BG” shirts during warmups and issuing joint statements with the Players Association.

Key Figures Who Spoke Out:

• LeBron James

• Stephen Curry

• Sue Bird

• Kamala Harris (U.S. Vice President)

Her return was not just a sports story — it was a powerful moment in geopolitics, human rights, and the athlete activism movement.

Back on the Court: Griner’s 2023 and 2024 Seasons

After her 10-month detainment, Brittney Griner made a triumphant return to the WNBA.

2023 Season Highlights:

• Averaged 17.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game

• Selected as a 2023 WNBA All-Star

• Voted WNBA Comeback Player of the Year

Griner’s on-court performance proved she hadn’t lost her touch. More importantly, her return inspired millions who had followed her ordeal. She has since taken on a stronger leadership role in advocating for the release of other Americans detained abroad.

Brittney Griner and Mental Health

One of the most compelling parts of Griner’s post-return journey has been her openness about mental health. She revealed in interviews that returning to the game wasn’t just physical — it was emotional and psychological.

“Being locked away for 10 months — I had to rebuild myself from scratch.” – Griner in an ESPN interview

Her resilience and vulnerability have opened up broader conversations in the sports world about PTSD, athlete mental health, and the trauma associated with wrongful detainment.

WNBA Support for Griner

Contrary to any rumors about suspension or being banned, the WNBA fully supported Griner throughout her ordeal. In fact, the league:

• Continued paying her salary under the “full-salary exempt” status

• Honored her during WNBA events in 2022

• Reaffirmed her place with the Phoenix Mercury roster post-release

The WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert stated:

“There was never a question about her value to the league. We stood by her then, and we continue to stand by her now.”

Why Do Suspension Rumors Persist?

Despite public facts and WNBA statements, the rumor that Brittney Griner was suspended or banned continues to circulate. There are a few reasons for this:

1. Misleading Headlines

Some media outlets used clickbait titles like “Brittney Griner Out of WNBA” without clarifying the reason.

2. Lack of Awareness

Many casual fans are unaware of the distinction between legal detainment and league-imposed suspensions.

3. Political Opinions

Griner’s political activism — including kneeling during the national anthem — has made her a polarizing figure in some circles, fueling misinformation campaigns.

Is Brittney Griner Playing in 2025?

Yes, as of the 2025 WNBA season, Brittney Griner remains an active player for the Phoenix Mercury. She is also a free agent in high demand, and discussions about a possible trade or new contract have kept her name in the headlines.

Griner’s Advocacy After Detainment

Griner is now working with organizations like Bring Our Families Home to help free other Americans detained abroad. She has also been an advocate for the safe travel of WNBA players overseas, pushing for improved protections and compensation domestically so athletes aren’t forced to play internationally for financial reasons.

Quick Facts: Brittney Griner Suspension Rumors Debunked

Conclusion

Brittney Griner was never banned or suspended by the WNBA. The confusion arose from her well-documented arrest and imprisonment in Russia — a geopolitical situation far removed from league disciplinary actions.

Today, Griner is not only back on the court but also thriving. She continues to be a symbol of strength, resilience, and advocacy in the sports world. The next time someone asks, “Did Brittney Griner get suspended?”, the answer is clear: No. She fought through unimaginable circumstances and returned stronger than ever.