Brittney Griner, one of the most dominant forces in women’s basketball, has always been a player who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Recently, the WNBA star and  Olympic gold medalist made waves by suggesting that ESPN should include her in the conversation for the “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) list in women’s basketball. Griner’s claim comes with a powerful argument: she believes she played a crucial role in the United States’ gold medal win at the Tokyo 2020  Olympics, and as a result, deserves recognition among the sport’s greatest players.

The GOAT Debate: A Crowded Field

The debate over who belongs on the GOAT list in women’s basketball is not new. The likes of Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, Tamika Catchings, and Lisa Leslie have long been considered the gold standard in the sport. Each of these players has had a remarkable career, with numerous accolades, championship titles, and individual achievements to their names. But Griner, whose career has been marked by her incredible physicality, shot-blocking abilities, and scoring prowess, feels that she, too, deserves a place in the conversation.

“I’m the one who brought the U.S. team to win the Olympic gold,” Griner boldly declared, referring to her pivotal role in Team USA’s victory at the Tokyo Olympics. The team, which was led by coach Dawn Staley, was expected to dominate, but they faced fierce competition from teams like Japan and France. Griner’s performance in the tournament, particularly her defensive presence and scoring ability, was integral to securing the gold medal for the U.S.

The Tokyo Olympics: Griner’s Time to Shine

Griner’s statement centers around her performance during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which were postponed to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. women’s basketball team went into the tournament as heavy favorites but faced challenges throughout, including a surprising loss to France in the opening game of the group stage. Despite this, Griner stepped up in the knockout rounds, contributing both defensively and offensively to help lead her team to victory.

The 6’9″ center dominated in the paint, showcasing her unmatched shot-blocking ability and presence around the basket. She averaged over 10 points and 5 rebounds per game in the tournament, but her impact went beyond the stats. Griner’s leadership, paired with her intimidating physicality, set the tone for Team USA’s defense, which ultimately proved to be the difference-maker in their Olympic gold medal run.

While other players like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson also had standout performances, Griner’s ability to control the paint and anchor the team defensively was essential to securing the gold. In her eyes, this is precisely what should qualify her for GOAT consideration. “I wasn’t just another player on the roster; I was an integral part of that team’s success,” Griner emphasized in her comments, reminding fans and pundits alike of her central role in Team USA’s Olympic triumph. A Case for Recognition

Griner’s call for recognition on ESPN’s GOAT list is a reminder that her career achievements are often overlooked in the broader conversation about women’s basketball greatness. While she is undoubtedly one of the most dominant players in the WNBA, Griner has often been overshadowed by other superstars, particularly in comparison to players like Taurasi or Bird, who have garnered more media attention throughout their careers.

But Griner’s impact extends far beyond just her Olympic performance. She has been a two-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, a multiple-time All-Star, and a key player for the Phoenix Mercury. Her height, athleticism, and shot-blocking ability make her one of the most physically imposing players the league has ever seen. She has also been a trailblazer for women’s basketball, advocating for gender equality, mental health awareness, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Griner’s personal journey has also added to her legacy. After enduring a harrowing and highly publicized ordeal in 2022, when she was detained in Russia for several months, Griner’s return to the WNBA and her subsequent performances were met with an outpouring of support. Her resilience has only strengthened her place as one of the most inspiring figures in the sport.

The GOAT List and the Evolving Legacy of Women’s Basketball

While Griner’s bold statement may raise eyebrows, it also points to the evolving landscape of women’s basketball. The GOAT conversation is a fluid one, with players constantly challenging each other for dominance on and off the court. Griner, with her unique blend of size, skill, and leadership, has certainly earned a seat at the table in these discussions. Her impact on the U.S. team during the Tokyo Olympics alone is enough to justify her inclusion in the conversation.

The fact that Griner feels the need to assert her place in the GOAT debate is also indicative of how much more recognition women’s basketball still needs. Women’s sports, in general, have been underappreciated for decades, and even as the WNBA continues to grow in popularity, players like Griner still have to fight for the acknowledgment they deserve. The GOAT list is not just a conversation about talent; it’s also about visibility, legacy, and the recognition of women athletes who have helped elevate their sports to new heights.

Conclusion: Griner’s Legacy is Undeniable

Brittney Griner’s confidence in asserting her place on the GOAT list is a reflection of her undeniable legacy in women’s basketball. While there will always be debates about who belongs in the GOAT conversation, there’s no question that Griner has had an immense impact on her sport. From her role in the U.S. Olympic team’s gold medal success to her dominance in the WNBA, Griner has cemented her place as one of the most influential figures in women’s basketball history. Whether or not she is officially added to ESPN’s GOAT list, her contributions to the game will be remembered for years to come.