"Lynx need to be the first team" - WNBA fans predict Brittney Griner's future as 10x All-Star tests free agency for the first time

Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner is expected to test the free agency waters this offseason. It will be the first time for the three-time Olympic gold medalist and 10-time WNBA All-Star to test the free agency in her career, which started in 2013 when she was drafted first overall by the Mercury.

According to Associated Press' Doug Feinberg, Griner is already taking meetings with multiple teams as she competes in the Unrivaled league in Miami, linking up with other WNBA free agents in the new 3-on-3 league.

With the news, some fans have already speculated about the veteran big’s future, with some suggesting teams that could benefit the most from the addition of the 6-foot-9 Griner on their roster.

“the minnesota lynx need to be the first team on the line,” a fan said.

“Brittney Griner, come on down! You are the newest player for the Liberty Biberty!” another fan wrote.

“BG how feel about Vegas ?,” one fan tweeted.

On the other hand, fans expressed how this could shake up the power dynamics in the league, as the potential of Griner joining another team might determine who would be one of the favorites to win it all next season.

“Wtf?????,” a fan wrote.

“Wow. Never thought I’d see the day,” another fan said.

“Ooh I’m liking this free agency start already. Let’s get some chaos pls,” one more fan said.

WNBA teams can only sign free agents starting Feb. 1, with the Connecticut Sun and the expansion team Golden State Valkyries having the most cap space to sign players this offseason.

Last offseason, Griner signed a one-year deal with the Mercury worth $150,000. She averaged 17.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game in 2024. However, the Mercury lost to the Minnesota Lynx in the first round of the playoffs last season via a two-game sweep.

Brittney Griner calls Phoenix home in 2024

Following a prisoner swap that freed her from charges in Russia in 2022, Brittney Griner returned to the Phoenix Mercury and called it home as she signed with the team in last year’s offseason for her 11th season in the WNBA.

“Phoenix is home… The love and support my wife and I have received from the organization, community and X-Factor over the last 11 years has meant everything to us,” she said.

Griner has been one of the few players who stayed with one team in their careers so far in the WNBA. This offseason's free agency could change that as teams vying to reach contender status are looking to sign her.

Griner is 34 years old and has been to six WNBA semifinals and two finals appearances in her career.