Tue May 20 23:10:00 UTC 2025: **Brittney Griner Eyes 2028 Olympics After Feeling Rejuvenated with Atlanta Dream**
Atlanta, GA – WNBA star Brittney Griner is setting her sights on the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, fueled by a fresh start with the Atlanta Dream. After 11 seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, Griner is embracing a new chapter in her career and aiming to represent Team USA on home soil.
“It’s a goal of mine,” Griner told ESPN. “To be able to play at the Olympics in your home country would be amazing. My parents have never been to the Olympics. So, I’m going to strive for it and try to do what I need to do so I can get that call-up.”
Griner, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, acknowledged feeling reinvigorated by the change of scenery. The move to Atlanta has provided her with a mental and physical boost, pushing her out of her comfort zone.
The decision to leave Phoenix wasn’t entirely her own. Griner had anticipated finishing her career with the Mercury, but the team informed her of their plans to revamp the roster, leading her to seek a new home. The Atlanta Dream emerged as her top choice, drawn to the team’s talent and the opportunity to play alongside All-Stars Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard.
“After I heard that, it became my decision because I want to be somewhere where they know they want me, where they believe in me and my game” Griner said regarding the Mercury’s decision.
The transition to Atlanta has been seamless, with Griner showcasing her dominance in preseason. She finished with 16 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 block in her first game. She is adapting to coach Karl Smesko’s system, even incorporating three-point shooting into her game.
Griner’s journey to this point has been marked by resilience. The 34-year-old spent 10 months in a Russian prison in 2022, an experience that has shaped her perspective. As a reminder of her strength, Griner sometimes draws four dots on her hand, a symbol learned from a cellmate.
“You made it through,” Griner said. “You literally sat by yourself in a prison with no one, so you’re good. So, if I’m having a hard day, I’ll put it on there and I’ll look down and see it and be like, ‘I made it through that. I’m good.'”
Griner is now ready to make her debut with the Dream. She is also embracing her role as a new mother to son, Bash and is committed to contributing at a high level and is determined to make the most of this new chapter in her career, on and off the court.
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