Brittney Griner, Mercury confronted by 'provocateur' at airport - ESPN

Phoenix Mercury center Brittney Griner and her teammates were confronted by a Blaze Media YouTube personality in the Dallas-Fort Worth International airport on Saturday morning before flying to Indiana after the team played twice in Arlington, Texas, this past week.

Alex Stein, a Dallas native who has gained some notoriety for confronting politicians, posted a photograph on Twitter saying «I just met my favorite WNBA player. Video coming soon.» Stein then also posted a brief clip of him yelling at Griner as she walked through the airport.

The league said Saturday that Griner has been approved to fly charter for WNBA games. It's unclear why she was not doing so Saturday.

«As we gather additional information about today's incident at the Dallas airport, it has come to our attention that this was orchestrated by a social media figure and provocateur. His actions were inappropriate and unfortunate,» the league said in a statement. «The safety of Brittney Griner and all WNBA players is our top priority. Prior to the season, the WNBA worked together with the Phoenix Mercury and BG's team to ensure her safety during her travel, which included charter flights for WNBA games and assigned security personnel with her at all times. We remain steadfastly committed to the highest standards of security for players.»

Late Saturday afternoon, the Mercury also released a statement.

«We are reviewing the incident that took place today at the Dallas airport. The health and well-being of our players and staff are our top priority and we will always take every step within our power to protect player safety.

»We are committed to our support of BG and advocating for all American hostages abroad. We will continue our support of marginalized