After Griner's big free agency decision, many WNBA fans seem to think Taurasi's retirement has become a sure thing. They took to social media to leave their thoughts. "Lol, Taurasi is retiring," one fan said. "Have to wonder if BG officially leaving Phoenix is the last straw leading to Diana Taurasi retiring," added another.

Long-time Phoenix Mercury star will start a new chapter of her career in the WNBA with another team after a wild free agency decision.

ATLANTA — WNBA star Brittney Griner confirmed reports that she will sign with the Atlanta Dream as a free agent. Griner posted a video on her social media accounts with Dream players Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard and Jordin Canada. “I need to introduce my new teammates because I will be joining the Atlanta Dream,” Griner said.

After 11 seasons in Phoenix, 10-time WNBA All-Star Brittney Griner has agreed to a deal with the Atlanta Dream, sources tell me and @alexaphilippou. Griner spent her entire career with Mercury and now heads to Atlanta in one of most stunning free agency moves in league history. pic.twitter.com/NfdAuYOAVs

In the second game, Bradley Central High School graduate Rhyne Howard, who plays for the WNBA's Atlanta Dream, scored 33 points to lead Vinyl to a 79-73 win over Rose. Vinyl was up 67-58 heading into the final quarter and held on for the win. Reese had 10 points and 14 rebounds for Rose.

The move continues an eventful day for the Mercury. Phoenix agreed to a deal to acquire five-time All-Star Alyssa Thomas and Ty Harris from the Connecticut Sun for guard Natasha Cloud, wing Rebecca Allen and the No. 12 pick in the 2025 WNBA draft.

Griner entered the offseason as the second-longest tenured WNBA player with one team, having spent her entire career in Phoenix.

Brionna Jones, a formidable post presence, joins forces with Brittney Griner, Rhyne Howard, and Allisha Gray on the Atlanta Dream.

Free agent Brionna Jones is signing with the Atlanta Dream, her agent, Boris Lelchitski. The three-time All-Star had played her entire career with the Connecticut Sun after being drafted No. 8 in 2017.

In the midst of the NFL playoffs and NBA season, the WNBA is making its own headlines even in its offseason. WNBA free agency commenced on Jan. 21. Front offices were finally able to communicate with free agents of all classifications - though contracts cannot be finalized or officially announced until Saturday,

Brittney Griner is officially ending her 11-year run with the Phoenix Mercury to start a new chapter with the Atlanta Dream. The 10-time All-Star center announced Tuesday night (Jan. 28) on Instagram that she intends to sign with the Atlanta squad for one year.