DeCarlo Griner: Eldest Sibling of WNBA Star Brittney Griner

Hey there! Ever wondered about the people who shape our sports heroes behind the scenes? Today I’m sharing the story of DeCarlo Griner, the big brother who’s been Brittney Griner’s rock through thick and thin. While his sister dominates headlines with her WNBA success, DeCarlo’s unwavering support deserves the spotlight too.

DeCarlo Griner Bio/Wiki

Facts	Information
Full Name	DeCarlo Griner
Relation to Brittney	Eldest brother (half-sibling)
Father	Raymond Griner
Age	Early 50s (as of 2025)
Height	Approximately 6’7″ (201 cm)
Education	Graduated from Nimitz Senior High School (1990)
Occupations	Mechanic, Truck Driver, Oil Rig Worker, Pool Installer
Children	Daughter: Sydney Alyse Griner
Notable Support	Supported sister Brittney during her 10-month detention in Russia (2022)

DeCarlo Griner Personal Background

DeCarlo Griner was born about 17 years before his famous sister Brittney Griner. Born to Raymond Griner from his previous marriage before Raymond met Sandra Griner (Brittney’s mom), DeCarlo would be in his early 50s now in 2025.

Growing up in Texas, DeCarlo didn’t always live under the same roof as his younger siblings, but that never stopped them from forming tight bonds. Despite the age gap, they consider each other “full blood” – a testament to their close relationship that transcends typical half-sibling dynamics. (Sportskeeda)

Physical Attributes

The Griner family definitely got those tall genes! DeCarlo stands at an impressive 6 feet 7 inches (about 201 centimeters), though his sister Brittney still has him beat at 6 feet 9 inches.

Can you imagine the basketball games at family gatherings? This family trait has served Brittney well in her WNBA career, but DeCarlo’s height surely made him stand out throughout his life too.

Early Life and Education

DeCarlo’s early years were spent in various parts of Texas, including Dayton, Humble, and Harris. His childhood likely included typical Texas activities like hunting for squirrels, riding go-carts, and playing sports. (The Sun)

According to available information, DeCarlo graduated from Nimitz Senior High School in 1990 – coincidentally the same year his youngest sister Brittney was born. This timing meant he was already entering adulthood just as his baby sister was entering the world.

DeCarlo Griner Career and Professional Life

DeCarlo’s professional journey shows he’s not afraid to roll up his sleeves. Throughout his life, he’s worked as a mechanic, truck driver, oil rig worker, and pool installer – truly earning that “jack-of-all-trades” reputation.

His varied career path speaks volumes about his adaptability and work ethic. While his sister found fame on the basketball court, DeCarlo built his life working these blue-collar jobs that keep our world running.

DeCarlo Griner Relationship with Brittney Griner

According to Brittney’s 2014 memoir “In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court,” she looked up to her big brother in those formative years. She was particularly impressed by his motorcycle when he’d cruise in for family dinners. (EssentiallySports)

This admiration even shaped her own interests in cars and tattoos – she wanted to be more like her big brother! Their connection shows how influential older siblings can be, even with a significant age difference.

You May Like: Joanne Minardi: The Woman Behind Basketball Legend Rick Pitino

DeCarlo Relationship with Father

The father-son relationship between DeCarlo and Raymond Griner had its complicated moments. Raymond described his eldest son as somewhat “wild” during his younger years, and they butted heads more than once.

Raymond would tell Brittney and her sister Pier Griner (also called Pleshette): “There’s no bail money for y’all because your brother used it up.” What seemed like a joke actually taught Brittney important lessons about choices and consequences.

Family Dynamics

The Griner family structure showcases how blended families can create strong bonds despite not fitting the conventional mold. The four siblings – DeCarlo, SheKera, Pier, and Brittney – have significant age differences but maintain close relationships.

With DeCarlo being 17 years older than Brittney, SheKera 10 years older, and Pier 5 years older, they didn’t have the typical experience of growing up together. Yet they’ve created meaningful connections that span different households and generations.

People Magazine shares Brittney’s own words about this unique dynamic: “They have always been great to me, and we consider each other full blood, but it’s not like we were all running around the yard, playing games, living under the same roof.“

During Brittney’s Russian Detention

When Brittney faced her 10-month detention in Russia, DeCarlo stepped up in a major way. He was among the first family members to see her after her release in December 2022, joining their father Raymond for an emotional reunion at the San Antonio base where she was recovering.

People Magazine describes this moment from Brittney’s 2024 book “Coming Home”: “On Brittney’s second morning home, DeCarlo and Raymond visited her at the San Antonio base… The athlete remembered everyone ‘hugging hard while fighting tears.'”

When Brittney faced her first off-season after returning home and worried about falling into depression, DeCarlo flew to Houston without even booking a return flight – he simply wanted to be there for as long as she needed. During her detention, he expressed his pain on Facebook, describing it as “one of the most difficult days in my life” when he had to wish her happy birthday without seeing or hearing her.

Social Media Presence

While DeCarlo maintains a relatively private life, he has an active presence on Facebook where he connects with family and friends. His profile shows connections with his sisters and extended family members like Lynde Emerson and Adrienne Middleton.

His social media offers glimpses into his role as a proud dad to Sydney Alyse Griner, whom he calls his “princess.” In 2021, he wrote that his sister Pleshette has always been there when he needs “a joke & a bottle,” while referring to SheKera as his “best friend.” (News Amomama)

Support During Key Life Moments

When Brittney came out as a lesbian in high school, DeCarlo responded with casual acceptance, reportedly joking, “It ain’t no thang“ – a simple but powerful statement of unconditional love that contrasted with her father’s initial struggle to accept this news.

This moment showcases why sibling support can be so crucial during life’s challenging transitions. When parents might struggle with change, siblings often step in with the acceptance we need. Have you ever been that person for someone in your family?

DeCarlo Griner Life as a Father

DeCarlo is a proud dad to his daughter Sydney Alyse Griner, who holds a special place in his heart. While much of his life remains private, his role as a father seems to be one he embraces fully.

This adds another dimension to understanding the man who’s been such a supportive presence for his own siblings – he’s passing those same values of family support to the next generation.

Interesting Facts About DeCarlo Griner:

• Graduated high school the same year his sister Brittney was born (1990)
• Influenced Brittney’s interest in cars and tattoos
• Known for his motorcycle that impressed young Brittney
• Responded to Brittney’s coming out with casual acceptance
• Flew to Houston with a one-way ticket to support Brittney after her release from detention
• Described by Brittney as a “healing presence” during her recovery
• Maintains close relationships with all his sisters despite significant age differences

Conclusion

The story of DeCarlo Griner reminds us that behind every public figure stands a network of support that helps them achieve greatness. From accepting Brittney when she came out to flying across the country during her post-detention recovery, DeCarlo exemplifies what it means to be there for family.

While he may not have the fame of his WNBA star sister, his influence on her life has been immeasurable. His varied career experiences, his role as a father, and his unwavering support paint the picture of a man who understands what truly matters – showing up for the people you love.

What about you? Is there someone in your life who’s been your rock through tough times? Or are you the DeCarlo in your family – the one everyone counts on when things get rough?

Keep following SportGalon for more related Sports updates!

FAQ About DeCarlo Griner

How tall is DeCarlo Griner?

DeCarlo stands approximately 6 feet 7 inches (201 centimeters) tall – impressive height runs in the Griner family!

Is DeCarlo Brittney Griner’s twin?

No, DeCarlo is actually 17 years older than Brittney. He was born from Raymond Griner’s previous marriage before Raymond married Sandra.

What does DeCarlo Griner do for a living?

DeCarlo has worked various jobs throughout his life, including as a mechanic, truck driver, oil rig worker, and pool installer, making him something of a jack-of-all-trades.

How many siblings does Brittney Griner have?

Brittney has three older siblings: brother DeCarlo and sisters SheKera and Pier (also called Pleshette).

Are DeCarlo and Brittney Griner close?

Yes! Despite their 17-year age difference, they maintain a close relationship. DeCarlo has been especially supportive during critical moments in Brittney’s life, including her detention in Russia.

Who is Sydney Alyse Griner?

Sydney is DeCarlo’s daughter whom he affectionately refers to as his “princess.” She represents the next generation of the Griner family.

How did DeCarlo support Brittney during her detention in Russia?

DeCarlo publicly expressed his support on social media, was among the first family members to see her upon her release, and even flew to Houston with a one-way ticket just to provide emotional support during her difficult transition back home.