Brittney Griner is arguably one of the biggest names in basketball today. Her dominance in the WNBA quickly became known to the world. The two-time Defensive Player of The Year burst onto the scene with Baylor. However, she is much more than just a basketball player.
As a professional, Griner made history as soon as she stepped on the court. The WNBA world was stunned to see the 6’8″ star walk the court. In the very first game, she broke the all-time dunk record. The next season, she made history with the Phoenix Mercury winning the most games in a single season.
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But the basketball floor is just one avenue for Brittney Griner. She is also an advocate for gender identity. And in an interview, the Mercury star spoke about her demeanor when she first came out.
Brittney Griner opens up about the time she came out
Before Griner took to the basketball court, she took an earlier step in her life. From an early age, she came out gay to her parents. And soon after coming out, Griner wasn’t holding back. During an interview with Mother Jones, the 31-year-old spoke about her earlier habits.
Griner said: “When I first came out, I kinda overdid it. I dressed extremely older-boyish, like sagging, and big shirt and big jeans. I was just like, ‘I’m gonna go extreme.’ And then as I got older, the baggy clothes got a little more fitting to my body but still masculine. Before, I wouldn’t wear tight jeans – ‘That’s girl! I want guy!’
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Notably, she also became the first openly gay athlete to be endorsed by Nike. In addition, she also helped spread the message through her book ‘In My Skin: On And Off The Basketball Court’. Griner has even helped the LGBTQ community when she can. She was the former grand marshall at the Phoenix PRIDE parade.
Helping spread her message, Brittney Griner is a stonewall for her community. And her example has undoubtedly helped many to be confident in their choices. Her career in the WNBA has certainly inspired girls to take up basketball and other sports.
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