Brittney Griner watched on as the Connecticut Sun improved to 9-25 on the 2026 WNBA season after an 85-77 win over Nneka Ogwumike and the Los Angeles Sparks on Tuesday. Now, already eliminated from WNBA playoff contention, the Sun will look to make it two-straight on Thursday, facing A’ja Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces.
When available, Griner, 35, has been one of the top players for Connecticut this season. In just 18 games played, the former Phoenix Mercury and Atlanta Dream center is averaging a team-high 13.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.
Prior to Thursday, Griner had missed 16 games due to numerous injuries, including a foot and neck issue.
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And in the 72-63 loss to the Mercury on July 19, Griner sustained a new injury to the left knee, forcing her to miss the next four games. She returned on August 7, when Connecticut took down Phoenix 75-72, and played the Sun’s next game six days later, a 104-69 loss to the Atlanta Dream.
However, Griner has been experiencing some problems in her left knee over the last week, forcing her to miss Connecticut’s last two games, including the win over Los Angeles. And while she was initially listed as questionable entering Thursday’s matchup vs. Las Vegas, Griner has been officially ruled out, missing her third straight game and 17th total this year.
Along with Griner, the Sun have also ruled out forward Aaliyah Edwards, who is battling a left ankle issue.
“UPDATED Game Status Report vs. Las Vegas Aces – 8.20.26,” Connecticut Sun PR wrote on X. “Aaliyah Edwards – OUT (Left Ankle). Brittney Griner – OUT (Left Knee)”
Griner will hope to be back on the court for the Sun’s next game, facing the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday.
