Brittney Griner, the renowned Phoenix Mercury star, recently shared her emotional experience of returning to her alma mater, Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Griner, 33, expressed her deep connection to Baylor, where her jersey now hangs in the rafters as a tribute to her remarkable achievements in women's basketball.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Griner reflected on the significance of 'COMING HOME' to Baylor, emphasizing the pivotal role the university played in shaping her career. She highlighted the profound impact of her visit, marking a poignant full-circle moment, especially considering the challenges she faced during her detainment in Russia two years ago.
Griner expressed immense gratitude for the warm reception she received from her loved ones and the Baylor community during the jersey ceremony. She credited Baylor, her college coach Nicki Collen, and the entire university staff for making the memorable event possible.
During her illustrious tenure at Baylor, Griner achieved numerous milestones, including a national championship in 2012, two Final Four appearances, and six Big 12 conference championships. Her impressive stats include scoring 3,283 points, grabbing 1,305 rebounds, and setting records in points scored, field goals made, free throws made, attempted, and blocks in the Big 12.
Griner's exceptional performance also extended to the NCAA, where she holds records for blocks in a season and career. She stands out as the sole player in NCAA women's basketball history to surpass 2,000 career points and 500 career blocks, showcasing her dominance on the court.
Looking ahead, Griner announced the upcoming release of her memoir titled 'Coming Home,' which will delve into her experiences in Russia. The memoir promises to narrate a story of hope, survival, and resilience, offering insights into her journey before and after the challenging period in Russia.
Griner's return to Baylor symbolizes a significant chapter in her career, underscoring the enduring bond between the athlete and her alma mater. As she continues to inspire fans with her achievements on and off the court, Griner's story serves as a testament to perseverance and triumph in the face of adversity.
