WNBA star Brittney Griner is voicing concerns to the American public. The former Baylor University standout and the No. 1 overall pick is speaking out regarding recent controversies involving ICE agents and U.S. Border Patrol, which have come under scrutiny following two shootings in Minnesota. Numerous sports figures, including NBA player Victor Wembaneyama, have expressed disagreement with the handling of the situation.
“You know, PR efforts have been strong, but I’m not here to give politically correct responses. Every morning I watch the news and feel shocked. It’s unacceptable that people treat killing civilians as something tolerable,” the San Antonio Spurs athlete commented on Tuesday. She added, “Sometimes the news makes me question my own life deeply. There are things I think about saying, but the cost to me would be too high right now, so I’m holding back on the details.”
Griner, who was previously detained in Russia for marijuana possession and imprisoned, has expressed her distress about the current climate in the U.S. She fears that what she experienced abroad could one day happen here.
Her statements will be featured in an upcoming documentary detailing her time in Russia. “I hope this film sheds light on the dangers of complacency,” Griner said to The Hollywood Reporter. “Our country is in a tough spot right now, and I believe viewers will gain insight and draw parallels, especially with events unfolding in Minnesota and elsewhere across the nation.”
Aware of the backlash she might face, Griner remains determined to speak her truth. “I’m human—sometimes I want to react and speak out,” she said. “However, many people crave attention and provoke responses just to feel important for a moment. I try to rise above that and focus on doing good work.”
Ultimately, Griner holds onto hope. “I believe if we unite, we can halt the current trajectory and bring about positive change in this country,” she stated.
This piece originally appeared in The Spun’s WNBA section on January 28, 2026.
Fan Take: Brittney Griner’s outspoken stance highlights the important role athletes play beyond the court, using their platform to address critical social issues. For WNBA fans, this deepens the connection to the sport, showing that it nurtures not only talented players but also passionate voices advocating for justice and change.
