Brittney Griner made a huge announcement after hitting free agency almost a week ago. As far as we’ve noticed, things have been moving in the right direction for the former WNBA Champion. For context, the basketball phenom was detained in Russia for 10 months after accidentally carrying illegal substances in her luggage. The arrest took place in February 2022 as she was caught carrying vape oil cartridges through Moscow’s Sheremetyovo Airport.
After several weeks of being detained, she finally appeared in court for her trial in August 2022. There she claimed that she had unintentionally packed the cartridges and did not mean to break the law. Griner made frequent visits to Russia as she professionally competed overseas as well. This is something most WNBA players do to earn extra money while they’re on vacation in the United States. After multiple attempts to get a release, the authorities found her guilty of smuggling the substance. As a result, she was shipped to a Russian Penal Colony.
However, in December 2022, the US Administration and the Russians came to an agreement for Brittney Griner’s release. They swapped Griner for a convicted arms dealer named Viktor Bout. She had finally made her way back home and avoided the sentencing of nine years rewarded by the Russians. Her return to US soil was very emotional not just for her but for fans and people around the world as well.
Brittney Griner plans to stay with the Phoenix Mercury until retirement
Brittney Griner eventually made her debut on the court during the 2023 WNBA season. This was one of the most anticipated moments that fans waited to witness. Everywhere she competed, the audience would give her standing ovations and applaud her bravery. Even then, she faced a lot of backlash. Fans, or in this case haters, would place horrendous accusations against her regarding her release and her identity as well.
Besides dealing with hecklers and online trolls, she had everything going well for herself. Upon her return, it didn’t seem like she was out of shape or form either. Griner was one of the best players on the Phoenix Mercury roster this season as she averaged 17.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. She also led the Mercury in rebounds throughout the season earning herself an All-Star selection.
The 32-year-old recently stated that she plans on staying in Phoenix until the end. She told the media, “Phoenix is home. “Me and my wife literally just got a place [in Phoenix]. This is it.” Despite having a terrible season with the team as a whole, she hopes to find herself with the Mercury ahead of free agency. Brittney Griner and Cherelle also moved to Phoenix as she said it felt like home.