WNBA star Brittney Griner was released from Russian prison after the US cracked a prison exchange deal with Russia.
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The entire basketballing community was together in the fight to bring WNBA star, Britteny Griner, back home. The two-time Olympic Gold medalist was imprisoned in Russia for carrying cannabis oil. However, after a lot of talks, the United States was able to crack a prison exchange with Russia and bring Griner back home in exchange for Viktor Bout. The Russian is famously known as the “Merchant of Death,” and has been in US prison for 12 years. There was a lot of debate on whether it was the right call, but it was undoubtedly great relief for Griner, who had only been in Russia to play basketball.
Brittney Griner landed in the US and was taken to the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where she’ll receive medical treatment. President Joe Biden first confirmed the news that Griner would be back home as part of the prison swap. Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Tuner, confirmed that there would be a light show in Houston to welcome the return of Griner.
NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver sent out an official statement on the return of the WNBA star. “Brittney has had to endure an unimaginable situation and we’re thrilled that she is on her way home to her family and friends. We thank the members of the NBA and WNBA community who never wavered in their efforts to raise awareness of Brittney’s unjust circumstances.”
Several sports personalities have come out in support of Brittney Griner. Her arrest in February happened just days before Russia invaded Ukraine. It was certainly a tough time for her as there were reports that her stint there could be in extreme conditions. However, the government was able to make a deal with Russia as a result Griner is now back home with her family.
Brittney Griner is one of the best centres in the WNBA. She has one WNBA championship and is an eight-time All-Star. Since being drafted first overall by the Phoenix Mercury, she has been a part of the franchise and helped them reach newer heights each season. Her ability on defense is what makes her the most feared bigs in the WNBA.
She has one of the most stacked resumes in the game and other than the WNBA, she has carried forward her brilliance in the Russian and Chinese leagues as well. Whether or not she’ll continue playing competitively is still a question. It’ll be definitely tough to come out of such a situation and although as a 32-year-old, she could still play, it is totally on how quickly she can keep all that behind her and continue to focus on her game.
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