Brittney Griner Shocks Fans with Pregnancy Announcement: “My Wife and I Wanted a Child — and I Chose to Carry”

In a revelation that has taken both the sports and LGBTQ+ communities by surprise, WNBA star Brittney Griner has announced that she is pregnant — and expecting a child with her wife. The groundbreaking decision makes Griner one of the few high-profile professional athletes to share such a deeply personal journey while still active in competitive sports.

Griner, a center for the Phoenix Mercury and two-time Olympic gold medalist, made the announcement in a heartfelt joint interview with her wife. “We both wanted to have a child,” Griner said. “And after talking through everything — from logistics to biology to emotions — we decided I would carry.”

The announcement was met with an outpouring of love and support across social media. Fans, fellow athletes, and public figures applauded the couple’s honesty and courage in sharing their story. “This is what love and family looks like,” tweeted fellow WNBA player A’ja Wilson. “BG, you’re rewriting the rules again — and we love you for it.”

Griner, 34, is no stranger to breaking barriers. As one of the first openly gay athletes in women’s basketball, she has long championed LGBTQ+ rights and spoken openly about her identity, body image, and mental health. Now, with her pregnancy, she is adding another chapter to her legacy — one that many say will help redefine parenthood in professional sports.

In the interview, Griner reflected on the decision. “I think a lot of people assume that the more masculine-presenting partner wouldn’t be the one to carry. But we’re a team. And after really thinking about it, I wanted to do this — for her, for us, for our future kid.”

Her wife, who has remained relatively private in the media, expressed admiration for Griner’s decision and strength. “She’s always been fearless on the court. Now she’s showing the same strength off of it.”

As for what’s next, Griner said she plans to step away from the WNBA for the remainder of the season to focus on her health and preparation for motherhood. The Mercury have issued a statement in support of her decision, calling it “a beautiful moment for Brittney and her family” and pledging to support her fully throughout the journey.

Medical experts say it’s rare — though not unheard of — for elite athletes to carry pregnancies during or shortly after their playing careers. Griner, known for her physical dominance on the court, says she has been working with doctors and trainers to maintain a safe, healthy routine during her pregnancy.

Fans are calling the announcement “historic,” not only for the league, but for visibility and acceptance in broader society. “It’s not just about basketball,” one fan wrote online. “It’s about seeing a strong queer woman live her truth, her way.”

Griner ended the interview with her signature grin and a hand over her belly: “I’ve played in some tough arenas. But this one — motherhood — it’s the most important game of my life.”