Brittney Griner is a staple in women’s basketball and an athlete of note for her athleticism and advocacy work. Griner’s court presence and her status as an LGBTQ+ icon have made her a financial and personal success. Brittney Griner is currently estimated to have approximately $5 million net worth. Her wealth is primarily due to her WNBA career, international basketball deals, and endorsement deals, plus her impact on women’s sports and LGBTQ+ visibility.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Brittney Griner was born October 18, 1990, in Houston, Texas, and was a star athlete in high school. Her unique combination of height, agility, and skill made her a high-profile recruit, and her move to Baylor University solidified her status as one of the top players in college basketball history. At Baylor, she played a remarkable role, leading her team to an undefeated season and an NCAA championship in 2012.
Among her College honors were the Naismith College Player of the Year award and AP Player of the Year honors, which set the stage for a professional career.
WNBA Career and Earnings
In 2013, the Phoenix Mercury, with whom Brittney Griner has played with throughout her professional career, selected her first overall pick in the WNBA Draft. WNBA salaries are typically lower than men’s professional sports leagues, but Griner has been among the league’s highest paid players. Her annual WNBA salary has fluctuated with the league salary cap, but contract terms put her earnings at around $230,000 per season – close to the league maximum.
This is a small salary compared to what many male NBA counterparts make, it’s supplemented by income from international contracts, where players often earn significantly more.
Overseas Contracts and Income
Like many WNBA stars, Griner has played overseas in the off-season to boost her earnings. Her contracts with Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg reportedly paid her more than $1 million per season, a figure five times her WNBA salary. International play has helped Griner make money and is common for WNBA players looking to maximize their income.
But despite these higher earnings, playing overseas means time away from home and the physical strain of year-round play. Then again, there has been some domestic focus for Griner in recent years, partly because of legal issues and her advocacy work in the U.S.
Endorsements and Advocacy
In addition to basketball earnings, Brittney Griner has signed endorsement deals with brands like Nike, making her one of the few women’s basketball players to do so. Griner’s endorsements reflect her appeal and influence, especially as someone who has broken down barriers in sports and beyond. Her deal with Nike, though undisclosed in exact value, significantly contributes to her annual income.
Griner’s advocacy as an openly gay athlete has added another layer to her public image. She has pushed for LGBTQ+ rights and increased visibility for underrepresented groups. Her visibility and authenticity make her a role model for young athletes and a respected figure in sports and LGBTQ+ communities.
