Brittney Griner entered the national basketball spotlight when she was selected by a WNBA team in the first round of the draft. Her path from high school stardom to professional arenas shaped her early career narrative.
The following detailed profile outlines when Brittney Griner was drafted, her key statistics, and how that moment connected to her later achievements in professional basketball.
| Player | Draft Year | Draft Round | Pick Number | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brittney Griner | 2013 | First | 1 | Phoenix Mercury |
| Position | Center | |||
| College | Baylor University Baylor University> | |||
| Draft Status | Number one overall pick | |||
College Career And Development
Before discussing when was Brittney Griner drafted, it is important to understand her growth at Baylor. She dominated college basketball with shot-blocking, scoring, and rebounding.
Her presence helped Baylor reach the NCAA championship game and solidified her as a top prospect for the 2013 draft class.
2013 WNBA Draft Details
The 2013 WNBA Draft marked the turning point when Brittney Griner officially became a professional. Teams recognized her size, skill, and potential to transform defensive schemes.
Her selection first overall aligned with league needs for dominant bigs and generated significant media coverage leading up to the draft night.
Impact And Early Professional Years
Being drafted first overall meant immediate expectations and opportunities for Griner. She signed a rookie scale contract with the Phoenix Mercury and prepared for a demanding schedule.
Her first seasons featured rapid adjustment, All-Star appearances, and the challenge of balancing individual impact with team success in a competitive league.
International Career Context
Griner also pursued opportunities overseas, which complemented her growth after being drafted. Playing in Russia and other countries expanded her experience and exposed her to different styles.
This international exposure strengthened her game and contributed to her longevity in professional basketball beyond the initial draft year.
Legacy And Continuing Influence
The moment when Brittney Griner was drafted set the stage for a career that influenced how teams value interior defense and versatile bigs. Her journey from draft night to becoming a multiple-time All-Star demonstrates the impact of that selection.
- Drafted first overall in 2013 by the Phoenix Mercury
- Developed as a two-way center with elite shot-blocking ability
- Combined college success at Baylor with professional growth overseas
- Established a lasting influence on the importance of interior defense in the WNBA
FAQ
Reader questions
In what year and round was Brittney Griner drafted?
Brittney Griner was drafted in 2013 in the first round as the first overall pick.
Which team selected Brittney Griner in the draft?
The Phoenix Mercury selected Brittney Gringer with the first overall pick in the 2013 draft.
What was Brittney Griner’s college when she entered the draft?</h Baylor University
She played college basketball for Baylor University before entering the 2013 draft.
Was Brittney Griner drafted based on her college performance alone?
Her college performance at Baylor was influential, but scouts also considered her size, defense, and potential in the professional game.