Griner made a promise on Friday...
Brittney Griner's Promise to WNBA Fans Before Historic Vancouver Game originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Brittney Griner has found success during her first season with the Atlanta Dream.
On Friday, Griner and the Dream looked for their seventh straight win and the 22nd of the 2025 WNBA season, taking on the Seattle Storm in what was a historic game for the league.
Friday’s contest wasn’t played at The Gateway Center Arena in Atlanta or Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. Instead, it took place at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, marking the WNBA’s first regular-season game in Canada.
Ahead of making league history, Griner had a message for Vancouver fans, promising to put on a show.
“What’s up, Vancouver fans?" Griner said. "Hope to see you at the game tonight. We’re gonna put on a good show for y’all.”
Other WNBA players such as Nneka Ogwumike, Te-Hina Paopao, Dominique Malonga and Skylar Diggins left their messages for Vancouver as well.
Hey Vancouver, you’re about to witness HISTORY 🗣️
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 15, 2025
The @seattlestorm and @atlantadream share a special message to fans ahead of tonight’s #WNBACanadaGamepic.twitter.com/PkSLm70Ixz
Not only does this mark the WNBA's first regular-season game in Canada, but the first regular-season game outside of the United States. The WNBA has held four exhibition games in different countries, including Edmonton (2024), Toronto (2023), England (2011) and Mexico (2004).
The WNBA is also preparing for a permanent presence in Canada. In 2026, the Toronto Tempo will make their debut, joining the Portland Fire. It will be the league’s third expansion team in two years, following the Golden State Valkyries’ launch in 2025.
Following the Storm matchup, Griner and the Dream will head down to California, facing the Valkyries on Sunday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Related: Brittney Griner Reacts to Latest Request Involving Atlanta Dream
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
