Brittney Griner

Before this year, Brittney Griner was already a superstar, a legend, and a hero. In her career, the 32-year-old center has won two Olympic gold medals and a WNBA championship; she has also been named to nine WNBA All-Star teams. But she became admired for her strength and courage while being detained in a Russian prison for nearly all of 2022 after authorities there discovered hash oil that was prescribed to her in Arizona.

After the U.S. government finally brought her home in a prisoner exchange, Griner had her highly anticipated return to the WNBA this year, where fans welcomed her back with open arms. After starting 31 games, Griner was named Co-Comeback Player of the Year for the league.

Through it all, Griner has held her head high as an out and proud athlete — and she hopes her example inspires others to do the same.

“Living proudly and out loud is the only way I know how, and I commend all the leaders and trailblazers on this list who have had the courage to come out and live authentically,” Griner says. “I appreciate the honor from Out and my hope is that in some small way recognitions like this are seen by those who have not yet found the time, space, or safety to come out — that they would know they’re not alone and that there is hope and community and family waiting for them when they’re ready.” @brittneyyvettegriner