Brittney Griner Wants Her Child to Call Her ‘Pops’

Brittney Griner, the celebrated WNBA player, has recently stepped into a new chapter of her life as a parent. In a heartfelt conversation about her recent experiences, Griner shares that she has become a parent and prefers to be called “pops” rather than “mom.” This choice reflects her unique approach to parenthood and her desire to embrace a non-traditional parenting role.

On July 8, 2024, Griner and her wife, Cherelle, welcomed their son into the world. Their baby was born weighing seven pounds and eight ounces. This joyous occasion has marked a significant shift in Griner’s life. She has expressed a deep and profound love for her new role as a parent, describing how the arrival of her child has redefined her priorities. According to Griner, everything that once seemed important now pales in comparison to her son, underscoring the transformative impact of parenthood on her life.

As Griner navigates this new role, she faces the challenge of balancing her personal and professional commitments. With participating in Paris Olympic for her third appearance for Team USA, her athletic career may add to the balancing act of accommodating her personal life.

Despite her excitement and success in the Paris Olympics, Griner acknowledges the emotional difficulty of being away from her newborn. The separation from her child during such a crucial time is a poignant aspect of her current situation.

Griner has been open about her experiences and identity, including her gender identity and public perceptions of her body. In a 2015 ESPN interview, she discussed the scrutiny she has faced and emphasized the importance of embracing one’s identity despite negative comments. Griner’s discussion highlighted her commitment to self-acceptance and rejection of disparaging remarks about her appearance.

Additionally, Griner’s recent past includes a highly publicized prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Russia in 2022. She was detained in Russia for nearly 300 days after cannabis was discovered in her luggage. Her captivity was marked by severe harassment and discrimination, including experiences of racism, sexism, and homophobia. This challenging period further underscores the complexities of her public and personal life as she navigates her role as a parent and an athlete.

Despite the hardships and pressure facing her, Griner snatched her third gold medal at the Paris Olympics, and is set to be the best “pops” a kid could ask for.