ESPN Report: Brittney Griner Breaks Down in Tears After Being Named SEC Tournament MVP, Honored with Prestigious Award and Record-Breaking Remittances.
Brittney Griner, the towering star of Baylor Bears Women’s Basketball, broke down in tears after being named SEC Tournament MVP and receiving a slew of awards that seal her status as one of the game’s greatest.
The statement came shortly after Baylor’s stunning victory in the SEC Tournament Final, where Griner recorded a double-double with 27 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 blocks. Her influence on the court was as evident as her leadership off of it, and the SEC acknowledged this in great style.
Griner was not only named MVP but also received the Prestigious Player of the Year Award, which is reserved for players whose effect extends beyond the stat sheet. The announcement was followed by another emotional high: a $10 million remittance from the Baylor program, which recognized her commitment to the team’s success and heritage.
Moments thereafter, Head Coach Johnnie Harris, visibly distraught, stunned the crowd by handing Griner an additional $3.5 million personal remittance, prompting a standing ovation in the arena. Coach Harris applauded Griner’s perseverance, grace, and influence on the next generation of female athletes.
“This is more than basketball,” Coach Harris explained. “This is about a young woman who’s carried the game on her back, inspired millions, and stayed true to herself in every step of the journey.”
Griner, wiping away tears when accepting the trophies, took a time to address the audience:
“I have been through a lot, but this means everything. I’m very fortunate to be loved like this by my team, coaches, and community. I never played for money or trophies, but knowing that my effort is being seen and appreciated makes me very grateful.”
The celebration was a highlight not only of Griner’s illustrious career, but also of Baylor women’s basketball history. As the Bears prepare for the NCAA tournament, their leader, MVP, and now legend, Brittney Griner, has made it obvious that she isn’t done.
This is one moment that fans and sports historians will never forget.