Baylor University is set to retire Brittney Griner’s No. 42 jersey in a ceremony at the Foster Pavilion in Waco, Texas, on February 18th, coinciding with the Bears’ game against Texas Tech. Griner, a standout player for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA, had an illustrious career at Baylor, leading the team to the Final Four twice and achieving a flawless 40-0 season as a junior.
Originally from Houston, Griner played for Baylor from 2009 to 2013, leaving a lasting impact on the program. She holds the NCAA record for career blocked shots with 748 and played a pivotal role in Baylor’s many victories. Additionally, Griner has had an impressive WNBA career, winning two Olympic gold medals and clinching the WNBA title in 2014 with the Mercury.
Expressing her gratitude, Griner said, “I’m honored to return home to Baylor and celebrate where so much of my journey started. I’m grateful to Coach Nicki [Collen] and the entire Baylor community…”
Griner’s relationship with former coach Kim Mulkey was strained, as Mulkey had previously stated that a player must graduate to have their jersey retired. However, Collen, who succeeded Mulkey, expressed her desire to honor Griner by retiring her jersey.
The timing of the ceremony aligns with Griner’s availability during the WNBA offseason, providing an opportunity for her to be recognized by the Baylor community. Collen emphasized Griner’s significance to Baylor’s basketball legacy, highlighting her remarkable talent and accomplishments.
Griner’s jersey retirement will mark a significant milestone in Baylor’s women’s basketball history, recognizing her as one of the program’s all-time greats alongside former teammates Odyssey Sims and Melissa Jones. Collen affirmed the decision, stating, “She is one of the best basketball players in Baylor’s history, and we’re thrilled that the time has come to celebrate Brittney and all of her accomplishments.”
