Full Breakdown
Brittney Griner Joins Connecticut Sun Amid WNBA Offseason Changes
4/14/2026, 5:42:45 AM
Brittney Griner's Move to Connecticut Sun
Ten-time WNBA All-Star Brittney Griner has finalized a seven-figure deal to join the Connecticut Sun, as confirmed by sources to ESPN. The Sun announced the one-year contract on Saturday, although the specific financial details were not disclosed. This signing occurs as the Sun prepares for their final season in Connecticut before relocating to Houston in 2027. Griner, a Houston native and former Baylor player, will be part of a team focused on developing a young core, which includes recent draftees Leila Lacan, Saniya Rivers, and Aneesah Morrow, along with newly acquired players Diamond Miller and Aaliyah Edwards.
Griner, a 6-foot-9 center, has had a distinguished career, including six All-WNBA selections and two Defensive Player of the Year awards. She previously played for the Phoenix Mercury, where she was drafted first overall in 2013 and contributed to their championship win in 2014. Last season marked a transition for Griner as she joined the Atlanta Dream, where she experienced career lows in several statistical categories. Notably, she missed the 2022 season due to wrongful detention in Russia.
Recent Trades and Team Dynamics
In addition to Griner's signing, the WNBA offseason has seen significant trades, notably involving the Chicago Sky and Los Angeles Sparks. The Sky traded All-Star Ariel Atkins to the Sparks in exchange for Rickea Jackson, a move that has been met with mixed reviews. Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca expressed enthusiasm for acquiring Jackson, highlighting her potential as a young talent. Jackson, who averaged 16 points per game after the All-Star break last season, is expected to bring scoring ability to the Sky.
Conversely, Atkins, a two-time All-Star known for her versatility and defensive skills, is anticipated to enhance the Sparks' lineup alongside established players like Kelsey Plum and Nneka Ogwumike. The Sparks have not made the playoffs since 2020 and are looking to end their postseason drought with this new roster configuration.
Official Statements & Responses
The Connecticut Sun's announcement of Griner's signing emphasized their commitment to building a competitive team for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, the Chicago Sky's management expressed optimism about their recent trades, with Pagliocca stating, "It's thrilling to acquire one of the great young talents in this league in Jackson."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the Sparks' trade for Atkins argue that while she is a reliable player, the decision to part with Jackson, a promising young talent, may hinder their long-term development. The Sparks' strategy of acquiring veteran players has raised questions about their future competitiveness, especially given the age of their core players.
What's Next
As the WNBA free agency period progresses, teams are actively reshaping their rosters in light of the new collective bargaining agreement, which significantly increases the salary cap. The Connecticut Sun and Chicago Sky are among the teams making bold moves to enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
