Statistically, 2025 was not a great year for WNBA star Brittney Griner. After playing the first 11 seasons of her career with the Phoenix Mercury, the 6-foot-9 center took her talents to the Atlanta Dream before the start of the season.
Griner joined the Dream as their starting center. However, a mid-season injury absence led to a permanent demotion to a bench role for the two-time Defensive Player of the Year. For the first time in her career, Griner came off the bench. She finished the season with career-low averages of 9.8 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 20.8 minutes per contest.
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Atlanta Dream center Brittney Griner after scoring against the Golden State ValkyriesDavid Gonzales-Imagn Images
(David Gonzales-Imagn Images)
Griner is now four years removed from her traumatic experience abroad. She may not have had the best season in the WNBA in 2025, but at least she’s back playing on home soil.
In 2022, while playing abroad during the WNBA offseason, Griner was arrested and detained in Russia after customs officials found vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage.
Griner eventually pleaded guilty to possession of an illegal substance, which ultimately led to 10 months in prison. She was only released after the United States and Russia agreed to a prisoner exchange in December 2022.
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In 2024, Griner published a book entitled “Coming Home,” which detailed her nightmare experience in a Russian prison.
On Tuesday, Griner took to social media to make an announcement about her book. She’s now published a version that is more appropriate for a younger audience.
“I am thrilled to be able to share my story with a young adult audience. Coming Home (Adapted for Young Adults) is out now. Make sure you get your copy today!” Griner posted on Threads.
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While Griner details her traumatic experience in the book, it also focuses on her journey getting back home. It is a story of perseverance amid adversity, and Griner wants to reach a younger audience to inspire them.
As for her basketball, Griner is now a free agent. It remains to be seen where she will end up once the new WNBA season begins.
Related: WNBA Legend Brittney Griner Shares Unrivaled Update
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
