Brittney Griner Sends Seven-Word Message After ESPN Announcement on Sunday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dibyendu Mondal | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 7:50 AM ET

On Sunday, the Atlanta Dream defeated the Washington Mystics 89–56, thanks to standout performances from Allisha Gray and rookie Te‑Hina Paopao.

Brittney Griner took to Instagram after Atlanta’s rout to honor her guards, resharing an announcement post of ESPN on her Instagram story, saying, "Allisha Gray and Te-Hina Paopao both put up career highs in the Dream’s 33-point victory over the Mystics ‍".

Griner posted a seven‑word message along with it, saying, “IT'S GIVING BIG SIS LIL SIS VIBES!”.

Her post underscored the bond between the veteran center and her dynamic backcourt, in a game where Gray erupted for a career‑high 32 points (10‑of‑14 FG, 6‑of‑9 3‑PT) and Paopao poured in 16 points on 6‑of‑8 shooting with 4‑of‑6 from deep.

Gray’s hot start set the tone, burying six triples in the first half alone, helping Atlanta set a franchise record with 18 made three‑pointers.

“I was a little disappointed in how I was shooting in the last game." She admitted, reflecting on her performance. "This game for me was to start out aggressive. All I needed to see was one go in and that gave me confidence.”

Off the bench, rookie Paopao made her presence felt both as a shooter and facilitator, dishing five assists to go with her 16 points.

“Big bruh (Gray) wants to be like me.” She joked post-game when asked about what they learned playing with each other. It highlights the bond Griner is speaking about.

Head coach Karl Smesko praised the duo’s chemistry, noting how Gray’s willingness to share the ball has elevated the entire backcourt.

With the Commissioner's Cup now 3–1 and Atlanta sitting atop the Eastern standings at 8–3, look ahead to their next matchup against the New York Liberty.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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