Brittney Griner experienced another tough playoff exit, marking consecutive postseason disappointments with two different teams within a short span. After the Atlanta Dream lost to the Indiana Fever in the first round of the 2025 WNBA playoffs, Griner faced another early elimination just five months later while playing for Vinyl BC in the 2026 Unrivaled women’s 3-on-3 basketball league.
Performance and Outcomes with Vinyl BC in the Unrivaled League
In the 2026 season of Unrivaled, Griner played for Vinyl BC, which finished the regular campaign with a 5-9 record but earned the sixth seed for the playoffs. Vinyl BC upset the third-seeded Laces BC with an 82-69 victory in the first round, demonstrating resilience despite their losing record. However, their run ended in the semifinals against top-seeded Phantom BC.
Phantom BC overcame the loss of key players Defensive Player of the Year Aliyah Boston and guard Dana Evans to defeat Vinyl BC, 83-75. Kelsey Plum led Phantom with an explosive 31 points, supported by Tiffany Hayes’ 19 points. Dearica Hamby was the standout for Vinyl BC with 30 points, while Rhyne Howard contributed 16 points. Griner’s role was limited, playing only five minutes and recording two points and two rebounds.
Griner Reflects on the Unrivaled Experience Despite Disappointment
Though naturally frustrated by the loss, Griner emphasized the positive aspects of her experience in the Unrivaled league. She shared on Instagram,
“This experience was lit yo honestly,”
displaying her enthusiasm for the competition. She continued,
“The season ain’t end how we wanted but it’s still [expletive] no matter what.”
These remarks illustrate her resilient mindset amid playoff setbacks.
Looking Toward a Return with the Atlanta Dream
As a free agent in 2026, Griner has expressed her interest in returning to the Atlanta Dream. Reflecting on her time with the team, she told Maria Clifton of Sports Illustrated,
“I’m looking forward to it. Everybody on that team, it was just easy. Basketball was the main focus; we showed up, we hooped, and that’s all you can ask for.”
She also added,
“And I’m looking forward to being there again. I’m looking forward to just being in the city. The city was amazing. They welcomed me so well, and I had a blast.”
Uncertainty Surrounding the 2026 WNBA Season
While Griner prepares for her next chapter, the 2026 WNBA season remains uncertain due to ongoing collective bargaining agreement negotiations between the league and the players’ union. These discussions have delayed decisions on the season’s schedule and raised questions about whether the campaign will start on time, adding to the anticipation around Griner’s potential comeback with the Dream.
