Brittney Griner believes she deserves a spot on ESPN’s GOAT (Greatest of All Time) list, stating, “I’m the one who brought the US team to win the Olympic gold medal 3 times in a row in 12 years, I deserve to be on the GOAT list.” This bold statement has sparked a significant conversation within the sports world.
Griner, a dominant force in women’s basketball, argues that her leadership of the U.S. Women’s Basketball Team to three consecutive Olympic gold medals over a 12-year period should solidify her place among the all-time greats. Her assertion has reignited discussions about what it truly takes to be considered the greatest in any sport and how such prestigious lists should be curated.
Throughout her career, Griner has proven herself as a transformative figure. Starting from her time at Baylor University, where she led her team to an undefeated season and a national championship in 2012, Griner has redefined what it means to be a center in women’s basketball. Standing at 6’9″, with unmatched skill, size, and athleticism, she has been a consistent star in the WNBA, earning multiple All-Star selections, two scoring titles, and a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury. Her contributions to the U.S. Women’s National Team, particularly in the Olympics, where she helped secure three gold medals, further solidify her place among the sport’s elite.
However, inclusion on the GOAT list goes beyond individual accolades and team successes. The debate surrounding who belongs on such lists is inherently subjective, with factors such as impact on the game, cultural influence, consistency over time, and the ability to elevate not just one’s team but the entire sport.
Legends like Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, and in women’s basketball, players like Lisa Leslie, Diana Taurasi, and Maya Moore, have been recognized not only for their dominance on the court but also for their transformative influence on their respective sports.
Griner’s case for inclusion on the GOAT list is based on her Olympic success and her standing as one of the most dominant players in the WNBA. Winning three consecutive Olympic gold medals is a remarkable achievement, and Griner’s presence in the paint has been critical to those victories. Her ability to perform at the highest level on the international stage is a testament to her talent and work ethic.
Yet, when considering her place on the GOAT list, it’s important to evaluate her broader impact on the sport. While Griner has been a dominant player, her influence on the game might not yet match that of other players typically included in the GOAT conversation. For instance, Lisa Leslie was a trailblazer for women’s basketball, becoming the first player to dunk in a WNBA game and playing a pivotal role in the league’s early years. Diana Taurasi, often referred to as the “White Mamba,” has been a consistent force in the WNBA and internationally, known for her scoring ability, clutch performances, and leadership. Maya Moore, whose career includes four WNBA championships, an MVP award, and a significant social justice impact off the court, has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Griner’s journey is ongoing, and her influence continues to grow. She has already achieved feats that few can match, and her candidacy for the GOAT list is not without merit. However, the GOAT list is often reserved for those whose contributions transcend their era and leave a lasting legacy on the sport as a whole.
In conclusion, Brittney Griner’s request to be added to ESPN’s GOAT list highlights the complexities of determining greatness in sports. Her achievements, especially in leading the U.S. Women’s Basketball Team to three Olympic gold medals, are remarkable and deserving of recognition. However, inclusion on the GOAT list requires a combination of on-court success, transformative impact, and cultural influence that goes beyond individual accolades. As Griner’s career progresses, her place in the pantheon of women’s basketball will continue to be debated, but her legacy as one of the game’s greats is already well-established.
