The Phoenix Mercury, riding a three-game winning streak, aimed to upset the third-place Atlanta Dream in a thrilling matchup. Both teams showcased impressive talent, making the game highly entertaining. Remarkably, Brittney Griner, a key factor in their past encounters, returned from a neck injury and came off the bench, adding an extra spark to the contest.
The Dream forward, who last faced the Mercury, missed three consecutive games before returning as a substitute. She played 13 minutes in her comeback, and head coach Karl Smesko was pleased with her brief but impactful performance.
Atlanta Dream HC Lauds Brittney Griner’s Return
Adding defensive steel to the roster, the Atlanta franchise signed free agent Griner in the 2025 season. While she was not her usual best, she adjusted to the new system and made important contributions to the side’s progress. She is averaging just over 10 points for the Dream.
Playing alongside a talented guard trio of Allisha Grey, Rhyne Howard, and Jordin Canada, the 2014 champion took over the rim protector responsibility. She missed five games in total, including a recent three-game stretch. During a game against her former side, Brittney Griner came off the bench and scored two points, with two rebounds and an assist in 13 minutes.
Karl Smesko was satisfied with her contribution and was more concerned about her well-being and movements.
“I thought BG was great. She was moving great. She looked really good out there. Defensively, she was excellent… She was controlling the paint. I thought it was a really good first game back for her,” Smesko said in the postgame interview (Via YT/AtlantaDream).
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Apart from the 10-time All-Star, Rhyne Howard also returned from a knee injury. She missed over 10 games and scored four points in her return. Allisha Grey led the scorers with 17 points for the Dream side while Naz Hillmon and Brionna Jones recorded double-double performances to register a 74-66 win over the Mercury team to hold on to third spot.
Brittney Griner Shoots For WNBA Series Love Is Pride
While out of action, the star was on a schedule for the WNBA’s own series, ‘Love is Pride’. The player, along with her wife Cherelle Griner, dives into their relationship. Griner even shared the post on her Instagram story. The WNBA also provided a glimpse of it on its official ‘X’ account.
“Our original series “Pride is Love” presented by @Coach returns. This year, featuring the @atlantadream’s Brittney Griner and her wife Cherelle Griner, the couple dives into their relationship in the most authentic way!” WNBA posted on its account.
Now back on the floor, the veteran star will be focusing on keeping the Atlanta Dream’s surge for its first title alive. She could also play in their next fixture against Seattle Storm on August 13.