“I get to show them something different.” Brittney Griner has never just played in the paint—she’s owned it. A force above the rim, a presence no defender can ignore. But sometimes, it only takes one moment to remind the world exactly who she is. That moment came in an Unrivaled matchup when Griner soared for the league’s first-ever dunk—an exclamation point in midair, a message for those left grounded. As the clip spread across social media, one franchise couldn’t ignore the sting: the Phoenix Mercury, watching from a distance as their former star made history once again.
According to a post on X by basketball scout, “BRITTNEY GRINER DUNKKKK,” the highlight-reel moment came during Phantom BC’s game against the Lunar Owls. Though Phantom BC fell 79-92, Griner put on a show with 19 points, seven rebounds, and an efficient 8-for-11 shooting performance in just 18 minutes. She finished second in scoring only to Satou Sabally and Natisha Hiedeman, proving that even at 34, her game remains elite.
BRITTNEY GRINER DUNKKKK pic.twitter.com/ffIU3gDcaj
— Basketball Scout (@ShowCaseShabazz) March 4, 2025
Meanwhile, her unofficial replacement in Phoenix, Alyssa Thomas, has been steady but far less electrifying. In her most recent game, Thomas recorded a respectable double-double, scoring 12 points, grabbing 16 rebounds, and dishing out eight assists for Laces in a matchup against Angel Reese’s Rose BC. However, despite her well-rounded play, the numbers speak for themselves: Griner’s offensive firepower outshined Thomas, and the dunk only added salt to the wound for Mercury fans.
Head-to-head statistics further reinforce this contrast. According to Stathead.com, Griner has consistently outperformed Thomas in key metrics. Griner boasts career averages of 17.7 points and 7.4 rebounds per game with a .562 field goal percentage. In comparison, Thomas averages 13.1 points and 4.4 rebounds with a .426 field goal percentage. The honors tell a similar story: Griner has six All-WNBA selections, seven All-Star appearances, and two Defensive Player of the Year awards, while Thomas has yet to reach those heights.
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