- WNBA Star Brittney Griner’s mental health break in peak basketball season recently made headlines.
- The break have cost her a two-game road trip, but her decision has been lauded by fans and peers alike.
WNBA Star Brittney Griner, the talented player for the Phoenix Mercury, will not be accompanying the team on their upcoming two-game journey to Chicago and Indiana. The team recently announced this decision, citing her need to prioritize her mental well-being.
This move comes in the aftermath of her high-profile detainment in Russia last year, an ordeal that lasted almost ten months. Despite this challenging situation, Griner has managed to participate in 20 out of 23 games for Phoenix in her debut season with the team.
The official Twitter handle of Phoenix Mercury announced on July 30, 2023: “Mercury center Brittney Griner will not travel with the team on its upcoming two-game road trip to Chicago and Indiana (July 30-August 1) to focus on her mental health. The Mercury fully support Brittney and we will continue to work together on a timeline for her return.”
The Phoenix Mercury organization has shown its full support for how Brittney Griner prioritizes mental health during this trying time. They are committed to working closely with her on establishing a suitable timeline for her return to the court. Griner’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, as she has been a standout player for the team.
The 6-foot-9 center has been instrumental in lifting the team with her remarkable performances, leading in scoring, rebounds, and blocks per game. Such outstanding contributions earned her a well-deserved ninth All-Star selection last month.
With Brittney Griner’s mental health break, the Phoenix Mercury currently finds itself in a challenging position. It is struggling to gain traction in the WNBA standings, holding the 10th spot with a record of 6-17.
Securing victories against the eighth-placed Chicago and the 11th-placed Indiana would be pivotal in their quest for a postseason spot. It’s worth noting that the Mercury has consistently made the playoffs since 2012, and maintaining this streak is of utmost importance to the team.
While Griner’s presence will be missed during this crucial road trip, there is a silver lining as guard Diana Taurasi has recovered from her injuries. Previously sidelined with a quad contusion and a left big toe injury, Taurasi is now off the injury report and ready to rejoin her teammates on the court.
As the all-time leading scorer in the history of the WNBA, her return brings optimism and an offensive powerhouse to the Mercury lineup. With just 71 points away from reaching the milestone of 10,000 career points, Taurasi’s determination to achieve this feat adds another layer of excitement to the team’s prospects.
A Note On Female Athletes And Mental Health Breaks
As evident from Brittney Griner’s mental health break, female athletes face unique challenges when it comes to their mental wellness, often navigating the pressure to perform at the highest level while managing various personal and professional responsibilities.
To maintain peak performance, it is essential for them to address their mental well-being proactively. Mental health breaks have emerged as a vital tool in this regard, allowing female athletes to step back from the intense demands of their careers and prioritize self-care.
These breaks provide an opportunity for rest, reflection, and seeking professional support if needed, ensuring that they can return to the field or court with renewed focus, resilience, and a healthier mindset.
By recognizing and supporting the mental health needs of female athletes, the sports community can empower them to achieve their full potential both athletically and personally.