Brittney Griner returns to hometown, plans to play basketball this season

After being in Russian custody for nearly 300 days, Brittney Griner was released in a prisoner swap. She was detained by Russian officials on charges of drug smuggling, as she was found carrying vape cartridges of cannabis oil.

Griner's Instagram post:

In an Instagram post, Griner said, “The last 10 months felt like a long-run battle, and it is peaceful to be home! I fought hard to keep my faith still and what kept me going was the love you all showered on me. Thank you! From the bottom of my heart, to help and keep supporting me.”

She said, “President Biden, your commitment to bring all Americans home is praiseworthy. Your efforts brought me back, and I am sure you will bring Paul Whelan and all Americans home soon. I will help you in all possible ways by using my platform, as every family is worthy of being whole.”




Griner said, “I plan to play WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury basketball this season, and by doing so, I look forward to extending my thanks to all who posted, wrote and advocated for me.”

At the Airport, Griner was welcomed home by Jim Pitman, Phoenix Mercury GM, Phoenix Mercury president Vince Kozar and Diana Taurasi, her teammate.

FAQs:

1. Who is Paul Whelan?
   Paul Whelan is a Canadian-born US Marine. On 28 December 2018, he was arrested in Russia in accused of spying and sentenced to 16 years of prison on 15 June 2020.
2. Where does Griner stay in Russia?
   She lived with Cherelle Griner, her wife, in San Antonio at Brooke Army Medical Center for a routine evaluation. Then they stayed at the base residential facility.