Brianna Turner is a professional basketball player known for her defensive prowess, versatility, and leadership on the court. She has made a significant impact in the WNBA, particularly with the Phoenix Mercury. Beyond her athletic career, Turner is also an advocate for social justice and community engagement.
Early Life and Education
Brianna Turner was born on July 5, 1996, in Pearland, Texas, a city located in the Houston metropolitan area. She grew up in an athletic household, where sports played an integral role in family life. Her father, Howard Turner, was a former professional football player who played as a defensive back in the United States Football League (USFL), which exposed Brianna to competitive sports from an early age. Her mother, Kellye Turner, was also supportive of her athletic endeavors, fostering a strong sense of discipline and perseverance.
Turner attended Manvel High School in Manvel, Texas, where she quickly established herself as one of the top basketball prospects in the country. She dominated the high school basketball scene, earning accolades such as the Gatorade Texas Girls Basketball Player of the Year multiple times. Her performance on the court led Manvel High School to a state championship and secured her reputation as a standout player.
Her stellar high school career earned her a scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, where she played college basketball for the Fighting Irish. Turner made an immediate impact at Notre Dame, displaying exceptional defensive prowess and shot-blocking abilities. She helped lead the team to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and was a key player during Notre Dame’s championship run in 2018. Academically, Turner pursued a degree in Film, Television, and Theatre, showcasing her interests beyond basketball.
Personal Life
Despite her prominence as a basketball player, Turner has maintained a relatively private personal life. She is known for her activism and advocacy, particularly in areas related to racial and social justice. Throughout her career, she has used her platform to speak on important issues such as equality in sports, LGBTQ+ rights, and mental health awareness.
Turner is openly LGBTQ+ and has been vocal about her experiences as a queer athlete. She has shared her journey in embracing her identity and has used her influence to create more inclusive spaces in professional sports. Her courage in speaking out about social issues has made her a role model for many young athletes.
In addition to basketball and activism, Turner has a passion for storytelling and filmmaking. She has expressed interest in pursuing projects related to film and media, drawing from her academic background at Notre Dame.
Family
Brianna Turner comes from a close-knit family that has played a significant role in shaping her athletic and personal journey. Her father, Howard Turner, influenced her early interest in sports, instilling in her a strong work ethic and competitive spirit. Her mother, Kellye Turner, has also been a supportive figure, often attending her games and celebrating her achievements.
Turner has occasionally shared moments with her family on social media, emphasizing their importance in her life. She credits her upbringing for giving her the resilience and motivation needed to succeed both on and off the court.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Brianna Turner |
| Date of Birth | July 5, 1996 |
| Age (2025) | 28 years old |
| Birthplace | Pearland, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) |
| Weight | Around 170 lbs (77 kg) |
| Position | Forward |
| College | University of Notre Dame (2015–2019) |
| WNBA Team | Phoenix Mercury |
| WNBA Draft | 2019, Round 1, Pick 11 (by Atlanta Dream) |
| Parents | Howard Turner (Father), Kellye Turner (Mother) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $1.5 million – $2 million |
| Notable Awards | NCAA Champion (2018), WNBA All-Defensive Team |
Career
College Career at Notre Dame
Turner’s college career at Notre Dame was marked by excellence and resilience. As a freshman, she made an immediate impact, showcasing her elite defensive skills. She quickly became one of the premier shot-blockers in the nation, solidifying her reputation as a dominant force in the paint.
Her college journey was not without challenges. During the 2016-2017 season, Turner suffered an ACL injury that sidelined her for an entire year. However, she made a strong comeback in the following seasons, helping Notre Dame win the NCAA Championship in 2018. Her defensive contributions were critical to the team’s success, and she earned multiple accolades, including All-American honors and the ACC Defensive Player of the Year award.
WNBA Career
Brianna Turner was selected by the Atlanta Dream as the 11th overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft but was traded to the Phoenix Mercury, where she has played an essential role in the team’s defense. In her rookie season, she quickly earned a reputation as a tenacious defender and rebounder. Her ability to guard multiple positions and protect the rim made her an invaluable asset to the Mercury.
Turner played a crucial role in helping the Mercury reach the WNBA Finals in 2021. She was one of the top defensive players in the league, finishing among the leaders in blocks and rebounds. Her defensive impact earned her recognition as one of the best defensive forwards in the league.
Beyond her individual success, Turner has continued to advocate for social justice and equality within the WNBA. She has been actively involved in the league’s social initiatives, championing causes related to racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights.
Overseas and International Play
Like many WNBA players, Turner has played overseas during the offseason to continue developing her skills and gain additional professional experience. She has played for teams in Europe and Australia, further expanding her global presence as a basketball star.
On the international stage, Turner has represented the United States in various competitions. She was a member of the USA Basketball team that won gold at the 2014 FIBA Americas U18 Championship and the 2015 FIBA U19 World Championship. Her defensive abilities and rebounding skills were instrumental in the team’s success on the global stage.
Brianna Turner – Career Overview & Achievements
Career Matches Played (WNBA)
| Season | Team | Games Played | Points Per Game (PPG) | Rebounds Per Game (RPG) | Assists Per Game (APG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Phoenix Mercury | 29 | 4.2 | 4.1 | 0.9 |
| 2020 | Phoenix Mercury | 22 | 7.2 | 9.0 | 2.0 |
| 2021 | Phoenix Mercury | 32 | 7.8 | 9.4 | 2.8 |
| 2022 | Phoenix Mercury | 36 | 5.5 | 6.8 | 2.4 |
| 2023 | Phoenix Mercury | 40 | 4.9 | 7.2 | 3.1 |
Popular & Legendary Matches
| Match Date | Opponent | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| September 2021 | Las Vegas Aces (WNBA Semifinals) | 23 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, Key Defensive Stops |
| October 2021 | Chicago Sky (WNBA Finals) | 12 Points, 9 Rebounds, Defensive Leader |
| July 2022 | Seattle Storm | 15 Points, 11 Rebounds, Game-Winning Block |
| June 2023 | New York Liberty | 18 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 2 Blocks |
| August 2023 | Connecticut Sun | 10 Points, 12 Rebounds, Triple Overtime Thriller |
Achievements & Awards
| Year | Award / Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2018 | NCAA Champion (Notre Dame) |
| 2019 | ACC Defensive Player of the Year |
| 2020 | WNBA All-Defensive Team |
| 2021 | WNBA All-Defensive First Team |
| 2022 | WNBA All-Defensive Second Team |
| 2023 | Phoenix Mercury Defensive Player of the Year |
Latest News (2025)
One of the latest trending stories about Brianna Turner revolves around her recent contract extension with the Phoenix Mercury, securing her place with the team for multiple seasons. The deal highlights her importance to the franchise as a key defensive player and leader. Additionally, Turner has been vocal about social justice issues, using her platform to advocate for equity in sports and society.
Height and Physical Appearance
Brianna Turner stands at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), making her a formidable presence on the basketball court. She possesses a lean yet strong athletic build, which allows her to be both an elite shot-blocker and an effective rebounder. Turner’s long wingspan and quick lateral movement make her an exceptional defender, capable of guarding both interior and perimeter players.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Instagram.com/briannaturner | |
| Twitter (X) | Twitter.com/briannaturner_ |
Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Brianna Turner’s estimated net worth is around $1.5 million to $2 million. Her earnings come primarily from her WNBA salary, overseas contracts, sponsorships, and endorsements. Additionally, she has partnerships with brands promoting women’s basketball and social activism initiatives. With her growing presence in the WNBA and potential future business ventures, her net worth is expected to rise.
