Looking At Brittney Griner's First Playoffs

Brittney Griner achieved significant success with the Phoenix Mercury, including winning a championship in 2014 and holding franchise records such as the all-time rebounds leader with 2,322. Although she now plays for the Atlanta Dream, a return to Phoenix would allow her to further build on these accomplishments.

Drafted by the Mercury in 2013, Griner made an immediate impact by earning a spot on the All-Rookie Team and leading the league in blocks. She also helped the team reach the playoffs in her debut season, where they faced the Los Angeles Sparks and Minnesota Lynx.

In the first-round series against the Sparks, Phoenix won 2-1. Griner contributed notably, scoring 10 points and 6 rebounds in her playoff debut, a game the Mercury won with four players in double figures, including Diana Taurasi's 30 points. After a loss in Game 2 where Griner had 18 points, Phoenix secured the series in Game 3 with a narrow 78-77 victory, aided by Griner's clutch jumper.

Advancing to face the Minnesota Lynx, the Mercury struggled, losing both games. Griner posted 13 points and 6 rebounds in an 85-62 Game 1 defeat, and 10 rebounds with 6 points in a 72-65 Game 2 loss, which ended their playoff run as the Lynx went on to win the championship.

Overall, Griner averaged 10.6 points and 6.4 blocks in her rookie season, marking a strong start to her career and foreshadowing her future success as a standout player.