Former Baylor player Brittney Griner revealed on air that she is gay in a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, following her ranking as No. 1 overall pick in Monday's WNBA Draft.

She sat down to talk with the publication alongside top picks Elena Delle Donne and Skylar Diggins, When the conversation turned toward sexuality - why more female athletes have come out as gay more than male athletes - Griner's response included an admittance about her own sexual preference. She included herself among women that have come "out."

"I really couldn't give an answer on why. It's just so different," Griner said. "Being one that's out, it's just being who you are. Again, like I said, just be who you are. Don't worry about what other people are going to say because they're always going to say something. But if you're just true to yourself, let that shine through. Don't hide who you really are."

When the reporter poked further and asked if the player's celebrity status made it difficult for her to come out as gay, Griner said, "It really wasn't too difficult. I wouldn't say I was hiding or anything like that."

 "I've always been open about who I am and my sexuality, so it wasn't hard at all," she added. "If I can show that I'm out and I'm fine and everything's OK, then hopefully the younger generation will definitely feel the same way."

Griner will begin her WNBA career with the Phoenix Mercury in May. 

Baylor Bears coach Kim Mulkey told reporters in March about how upset she is to see fans treat Griner badly because they "take it to a personal level."

"Brittney has heard more than her fair share of what I would consider personal taunts," Mulkey added. "Brittney Griner has had to endure more than any player that I've ever had to coach." 

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