Brittney Griner, the No. 1 pick in this year’s WNBA draft, acknowledged April 17 in interviews that she is gay.
Griner, a 6-foot-8, three-time All-America center during an illustrious career at Baylor, said she has previously talked about her sexuality, but this appears to be the first time she’s discussed the matter publicly. She shared the news during an interview with the Sports Illustrated website SI.com.
“Being one that’s out, it’s just being who you are,” she told the publication. “Again, like I said, just be who you are. Don’t worry about what other people are going to say, because they’re always going to say something, but, if you’re just true to yourself, let that shine through. Don’t hide who you really are.”
The group interview included Elena Delle Donne and Skylar Diggins, the number two and three picks in the WNBA draft. The women were asked why coming out in women’s sports is more accepted than in male leagues.
“I really couldn’t give an answer on why that’s so different,” Griner responded.
Asked about her sexuality in light of being the top pick, Briner responded:
“It really wasn’t too difficult, I wouldn’t say I was hiding or anything like that,” she said. “I’ve always been open about who I am and my sexuality. So, it wasn’t hard at all. If I can show that I’m out and I’m fine and everything’s okay, then hopefully the younger generation will definitely feel the same way.”
The Associated Press also interviewed the three women and the topic of bullying was part of the discussion. Griner said she was “picked on for being different” while also acknowledging that she is a lesbian.
“Just being bigger, my sexuality, everything,” she told the AP. “I overcame it and got over it. Definitely something that I am very passionate about. I want to work with kids and bring recognition to the problem, especially with the LGBT community.”
Griner told USA Today that her parents encouraged her to be open about her sexuality during the draft.
“My parents didn’t know at the time,” Griner told the newspaper. “I hadn’t come out completely. It was kind of like, you know … I just hadn’t said it. My dad and my mom have always told me, ‘Be who you are.’ At the time, they probably weren’t sure what I was interpreting that as,” she said.
Griner finished her four-year Baylor career as the second all-time scorer in women’s NCAA history with 3,283 points. She is the top shot-blocker ever, shattering both the men’s and women’s college marks with 748. She also had a record 18 dunks – including 11 this season.
