Lin Dunn Shares Her Thoughts on Brittney Griner’s Potential Spot on U.S. Olympic Team
Lin Dunn, former head coach of the Indiana Fever and an accomplished figure in women’s basketball, recently shared her thoughts on the possibility of Brittney Griner, the WNBA star, making the U.S. Olympic team for the upcoming games. Griner, who has been one of the most dominant forces in women’s basketball for over a decade, made headlines in 2022 after her release from a Russian detention center, where she had been wrongfully imprisoned. This event had a significant impact on her career, her personal life, and the broader basketball community. Dunn’s reflections come at a time when discussions about Griner’s future with Team USA are gaining momentum, especially following her return to the WNBA and her remarkable recovery from such a traumatic experience.
Dunn, who has witnessed and shaped the careers of some of the greatest players in the game, including several members of the U.S. Women’s National Basketball Team, shared that she believes Griner’s inclusion on the Olympic team is not only justified but vital for the team’s chances of securing another gold medal. “Brittney is a game-changer. There’s no doubt about that,” Dunn stated. “She’s an incredible talent, and her presence on the court is unlike anything we’ve seen from most players. The physicality, the size, the ability to dominate both ends of the floor—it’s a huge asset for the team.”
Griner’s 6’9” frame and elite shot-blocking ability have made her one of the best centers in the world. Her versatility and ability to stretch the floor with her outside shooting make her a unique threat to opposing defenses. While she has already proven herself in the WNBA, Griner has also been a cornerstone for the U.S. Women’s National Basketball Team, contributing significantly to their gold medal win at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Dunn acknowledged that while Griner’s absence from the game during her time in Russia raised questions about her return, she believes the star center can pick up where she left off.
However, Dunn did address the challenges Griner might face after such a traumatic period. “The mental aspect is something that can’t be overlooked,” Dunn said. “Griner went through an unimaginable experience, and it’s important to recognize the strength it took for her to get back on the court at all. There may be a process of rebuilding that will take time, but I have no doubt that her passion for the game and her drive to represent her country will carry her through.”
Griner’s comeback story has been nothing short of inspiring. After returning to the United States, she faced a period of adjustment, both physically and emotionally. Griner’s return to the WNBA with the Phoenix Mercury demonstrated that, despite the long absence, she still possessed the dominant skills that have made her a household name. Throughout her recovery process, Griner’s resilience has made her a symbol of perseverance and strength for both fans and fellow athletes. The U.S. Olympic team could certainly benefit from her leadership, experience, and skill set on the court.
Dunn was also quick to point out that Griner’s inclusion on the U.S. Olympic team would be about more than just basketball. The symbolic nature of her return to international competition could inspire millions of young athletes, particularly women and girls who look up to Griner as a role model. “Brittney is a beacon of hope, especially for those who may have felt overlooked or underestimated,” Dunn emphasized. “Her story represents overcoming adversity and staying focused on your goals. That’s something every Olympic athlete can connect with.”
The former coach also discussed the competition for spots on the Olympic roster, especially with the increasing depth of talent in women’s basketball. “The U.S. team has so many amazing players right now, but there’s always room for someone who can change the game in the way Brittney can,” Dunn said. “Her skill set complements the strengths of the team, and she’s proven she can perform at the highest level when it matters most.”
While the final roster will ultimately be determined by U.S. Basketball’s selection committee, Dunn’s endorsement of Griner’s potential role on the Olympic team carries significant weight. With the Tokyo Olympics now in the rearview mirror, eyes are already turning toward the Paris 2024 games, and discussions about team composition are at the forefront. Given Griner’s previous success and the motivation she has shown in her recovery, her inclusion could be a key factor in the U.S. team’s quest for another gold medal.
As the future unfolds for both Griner and the U.S. Women’s National Basketball Team, Dunn’s perspective is one of optimism and respect for an athlete who has proven time and again that she can rise above challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem. With her skills, leadership, and tenacity, Brittney Griner’s place on the U.S. Olympic Team is looking increasingly likely, and many, including Dunn, are eager to see her return to the international stage.
