Brittney Griner is a highly popular and influential figure in the world of women’s basketball. With her strong presence on the court, power, and technical capabilities, Griner has established herself not only as a basketball player but also as someone who can lead the charge to bring change, as well as a role model. Fans often wonder about various aspects of her life, including her Brittney Griner height, which is a major part of her athletic advantage. In this article, we will explore her career, achievements, personal life, and how Brittney Griner height plays a key role in her success on the court.
Biography
Brittney Griner is a legendary U.S. basketball center known for her strong defensive abilities, her ability to make history with dunks, and her multiple Olympic medals. Measuring 6 feet 9 inches (206 cm) in height and being an athletic individual, she has become one of the most influential players in women’s basketball. The narrative of Griner encompasses a win of the NCAA championship at Baylor, being the first overall draft pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft, and going beyond the famous case of false imprisonment in Russia. The following is a brief biographical detail of her background:
| Attribute | Information |
| Full Name | Brittney Yevette Griner |
| Date of Birth | October 18, 1990 (age 34 in 2025) |
| Birthplace / Hometown | Houston, Texas, USA; grew up in Humble and Dayton, Texas |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 9 in (206 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 205–206 lbs (93 kg) across career averages |
| Position | Center |
| College | Baylor University (2009–2013); led team to 2012 NCAA Championship, multiple awards |
| WNBA Career | Drafted #1 overall by Phoenix Mercury in 2013; played there until 2024; joined Atlanta Dream in 2025 |
| Awards & Honors | WNBA Champion (2014); 2× Defensive Player of the Year; 10× All-Star; WNBA 25th Anniversary Team; multiple college awards |
| Defense & Dunking | All-time WNBA blocks leader (812+), led league 8 times; first WNBA player to dunk twice in a single game; career NCAA record dunks (18) |
| Olympics | 3× Olympic gold medals (2016, 2020, 2024) representing Team USA |
| Detainment in Russia | Detained Feb–Dec 2022 for marijuana vape cartridges; sentenced then released in prisoner exchange for Viktor Bout |
| Memoir | Coming Home, released May 2024, detailing her detainment experience |
| Family & Personal Life | Formerly married to Glory Johnson (twins) in 2015, divorced in 2016; married to Cherelle Griner in 2019; Son Bash born July 8, 2024 |
| Social Media | Instagram: @brittneyyevettegriner;
Twitter/X: @brittneygriner |
| Legacy & Activism | Breakthrough for women dunking in basketball; outspoken LGBTQ rights advocate; community outreach; book for anti-drug education |
Early Life and Background
Brittney Griner was born on October 18th, 1990, in Houston, Texas. During her childhood, she was the tallest among her peers at school, which sparked her interest in basketball. Her father, Ray Griner, has supported her in playing sports, and she soon developed a passion for basketball. Her large body stature and innate athleticism were very noticeable, and Griner soon became a basketball prodigy.
A few years later, during her high school education at Nimitz High School in Houston, Griner continued to improve her game on the court. Upon graduation, she already had a strong collection of records, including blocking 318 shots in a single season as a senior. Brittney Griner height played a crucial role in her ability to dominate the game, and she was quickly recognized as one of the top prospects in women’s basketball.
She was so successful at the high school level in basketball that she received a scholarship to join Baylor University’s college basketball team and would go on to emerge as one of the most fearsome basketball players in the history of college basketball. At Baylor, Griner assisted the team in winning the national championship in 2012, and she was voted the NCAA Women is Basketball Player of the Year on several occasions. Brittney Griner height was one of the key factors that allowed her to excel in college basketball and eventually transition to the professional league.
Brittney Griner Height
When it comes to Brittney Griner height, she stands at an imposing 6 feet 8 inches (203 cm) tall. This height is extremely tall, making her one of the tallest professional female basketball players in the world. The size works to her advantage more than ever, as it aids both her offensive and defensive play. Brittney Griner height allows her to dominate in the post, block shots, and rebound with ease. It also gives her strength in the paint, something that has earned her awards throughout her career.
The one thing that is noticeable as people see Griner on the basketball court is her height. But, then it is not merely her physical size that has made her one of the household names, but her fabulous talent and skill. Brittney Griner height allows her to excel in areas where many players struggle, giving her the ability to perform at the highest levels of competition.
Professional Career
Brittney Griner joined the 2013 draft of the WNBA and was picked as the number-one pick by the Phoenix Mercury. When she made her debut in the WNBA, everyone took notice of her size, talent, and play. Brittney Griner height made her an intimidating force in the paint, and her ability to block shots, finish at the rim, and rebound gave her an edge over many of her competitors.
Griner has also been characterized by her dominance on both sides of the court throughout her entire professional career. She has received four WNBA All-Star selections, WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, and two WNBA championships with the Phoenix Mercury. Her impressive dunks and shot-blocking skills, combined with her outstanding physical performance, have set her apart from other players and made her one of the most recognizable faces in women’s basketball.
Besides her career in the WNBA, Griner also represented other international basketball teams, including those operating in China and Russia, thereby expanding her impact on the global basketball stage. She also became one of the best players in the world, thanks to her success overseas, where she continually broke records and won championships wherever she competed.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Out of court, Brittney Griner has volunteered herself to various great causes. She has been vocal about her support for social justice and LGBTQ + rights and is quite outspoken. Griner is one of the most out LGBTQ + athletes in the world since she came out as a gay woman in 2013. The fact that she faced the issue of wanting to come out with her statement about giving up her personal story was a turning point for the sports community, as it made people open up and accept those in the sports fraternity who needed a change in their lives.
Besides her advocacy activities, Griner has also been active in various charity organizations and community outreach programs. Her platform has been utilized to raise awareness about various causes, including mental health awareness, youth education, and poverty alleviation. As a role model not only in sports but also in society, Griner has done everything possible to motivate people and make a significant impact in the world.
While Griner’s Brittney Griner height has earned her recognition on the court, it is her commitment to making the world a better place that has truly defined her legacy. Her ability to lead way off the court, her determination, and her hard work have made her an example and an inspiration to the young generation all over.
Challenges and Resilience
The road leading to success has not been smooth for Brittney Griner. In her profession, she has experienced unpleasant experiences, not only in her career but also in life. Griner has consistently demonstrated that she is not someone who can be easily dethroned, starting with her fight against the stereotyping of women and her exceptional basketball game, all the way up to her battling her own demons.
Griner will have to deal with a significant problem in 2022, as she was imprisoned in Russia because of being accused of having illegal substances in her baggage. The ordeal culminated in a lengthy court fight, however, the strength and willpower enabled Griner to go free after several months of being in custody. Her story has become an example of what it takes and what one needs in the face of adversity, inspiring millions of people around the globe.
Griner has never given up on the obstacles that she has had to overcome in her entire life and career. Whether it’s the pressures associated with media attention, personal barriers, or the urge to overcome them, along with the challenges of being a high-profile athlete, Griner has succeeded in remaining strong and is an exemplar of perseverance at her best.
Conclusion
The career of Brittney Griner is both resilient and determined. Whether it’s her towering Brittney Griner height, her groundbreaking achievements in basketball, or her advocacy for social justice, she continues to be a trailblazer. Her impact extends much beyond the basketball game, and she is certainly going to continue inspiring others in the future.
FAQs
What is Brittney Griner height?
Brittney Griner stands at 6 feet 8 inches (203 cm) tall, making her one of the tallest female basketball players in history.
How old is Brittney Griner?
Brittney Griner was born on October 18, 1990, making her 34 years old in 2025.
Where did Brittney Griner play college basketball?
Brittney Griner played college basketball at Baylor University, where she led the team to a national championship in 2012.
How many WNBA championships has Brittney Griner won?
Brittney Griner has won two WNBA championships with the Phoenix Mercury (in 2014 and 2021).
What are some of Brittney Griner’s major awards?
Brittney Griner has been named WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, a multiple-time WNBA All-Star, and WNBA Champion. She has also won Olympic gold medals with the United States national team.
Is Brittney Griner involved in any advocacy work?
Yes, Brittney Griner is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, social justice, and equality. She has also been involved in charity work focusing on mental health and youth education.
What is Brittney Griner’s legacy?
Brittney Griner’s legacy extends beyond basketball, as she is recognized for her contributions to LGBTQ+ rights, social justice, and her leadership in breaking barriers in the sports world.
What challenges has Brittney Griner faced?
Brittney Griner has faced various challenges, including media scrutiny, personal struggles, and a major international incident in 2022 when she was detained in Russia.
What international teams has Brittney Griner played for?
In addition to the Phoenix Mercury, Brittney Griner has played for international teams in China and Russia during the off-season.
Has Brittney Griner been involved in any legal issues?
Yes, in 2022, Brittney Griner was detained in Russia after being accused of carrying illegal substances, but she was released after several months.



