After one season with the Atlanta Dream in 2025, Brittney Griner opted to leave and join the Connecticut Sun in free agency. She largely played a backup role with reduced minutes in Atlanta, but with Connecticut, the star center has been a constant starter.
In the three games she has played for the Sun this 2026, Griner has averaged 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 27.3 minutes of action.
Unfortunately, Griner missed Connecticut's last two games, both against the Seattle Storm, due to a right rib injury.
That being said, there were plenty of questions about her availability against the Golden State Valkyries on Monday.
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Is Brittney Griner Playing Today?
Griner was initially listed as "probable" for the Valkyries game at Chase Center in San Francisco. A probable status usually means that there's a high chance the player will suit up for the game.
However, hours before tipoff, the Sun downgraded Griner to "out." The Sun have not provided any update on whether or not the 10-time All-Star suffered a setback in her recovery from her rib strain.
Two-time All-Star center Stefanie Dolson has started for the Sun in Griner's absence, so she's expected to continue anchoring the middle for Connecticut until the 35-year-old returns.
While it's still too early to be concerned about Griner's health, it's worth noting that she also missed two games earlier in the season due to a left foot injury. It will be interesting to see whether she can overcome her fitness issues and be available for the Sun as the season progresses.
