Why Did Brittney Griner Leave Phoenix Mercury After a Decade for Atlanta Dream?

Brittney Griner is leaving the Phoenix Mercury, the team she’s called home since 2013. For the first time in her WNBA career, the 10-time All-Star is testing free agency and has landed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Dream. The announcement surprised many and has left everyone thinking: Why now, after all these years?

Griner spent her entire career with Phoenix, becoming the face of the franchise. But even loyalty has its limits, and she felt it was time for a fresh start. Part of this stems from the Mercury’s recent shift in direction, as the team looks to rebuild its roster and embrace a new playing style.

According to Howard Megdal, Phoenix’s push to play a more “five-out” system played a role in Griner’s decision to leave. This style prioritizes perimeter shooting and spacing, which doesn’t align with Griner’s strengths. As Megdal explained, “You also have the very real issue that if you are looking to play five out, as Phoenix did for much of this past season, and is hell-bent on doing so in 2025, that is part of why Brittney Griner is on the free agent market.”

Megdal’s analysis hits home. Griner is a force in the low post, dominating with her interior scoring and rim protection. But in a five-out system, her role could be minimized in favor of players who stretch the floor. While this makes sense on paper, Griner herself had other reasons for her move.

From Mercury to Dream, Brittney Griner finds new strength in fresh beginnings.

She addressed the change in an Instagram video, sharing how free agency gave her the chance to explore new paths. “Free agency has been everything I wanted it to be, honestly. I was able to find where I wanted to go,” Griner said. “Honestly, what led me to that decision ultimately was the team, the players. Also my family. I’m thrilled for this chapter,” she added.

Atlanta offers Griner a fresh opportunity. The Dream finished 8th last season but have a promising roster, led by 24-year-old guard Rhyne Howard. Howard, a two-time All-Star and the 2022 Rookie of the Year, is joined by Allisha Gray, another two-time All-Star. Together, they form a solid core of young talent. Griner’s presence will bring veteran leadership and interior dominance, perfectly complementing the team’s rising stars.

For Griner, this move isn’t just about basketball. It’s also about building new relationships. As she emphasized, “the team, the players” played a key role in her choice. Her family was another driving force. At 34, she’s focusing on making the most of her career and setting herself up for the future.

The Atlanta Dream represents a new chapter for Griner—a chance to grow, compete, and shine in a different environment. It’s clear she’s ready for this next step, and Atlanta might just be the perfect fit for her journey forward.