Fans show love to Brittney Griner upon her competitive comeback

American Brittney Griner Returns to the Court After 10 Months in Russian Custody

If you’re a basketball fan, or just someone who loves stories of perseverance and triumph, then you’ll be inspired by the story of American basketball player Brittney Griner. The 32-year-old returned to competitive action for the Phoenix Mercury after spending ten months in Russian custody for possessing cannabis oil.

Kamala Harris Leads Warm Welcome Home

Griner’s return was greeted with excitement from fans and fellow players alike. United States vice-president Kamala Harris even embraced her on court before their WNBA game against Los Angeles Sparks.

“The love from the fans who came out was amazing,” said Griner. “I definitely feel it, and I felt it while I was over there too.”

Despite being on the away team, Griner won the tip-off and received cheers when she hit a remarkable 17-foot jumper that helped her side take an early lead. Although they ended up losing to LA Sparks by a scoreline of 94-71, Brittney scored 18 points and registered six rebounds – no small feat after such a long absence!

The Importance of Supportive People During Hardships

Harris wasn’t alone at Staples Center providing support for Griner on her major comeback. Tennis legend Billie Jean King, LA Lakers icon Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson and current LA Lakers men’s head coach Darvin Ham were also in attendance.

Brittney is a two-time Olympic champion and she’s one of the best female basketballers in the world. Her arrest at Moscow airport in February 2022 made headlines around the world when it was discovered that she had cannabis oil with her.

A Story of Perseverance And Triumph

After pleading guilty to possession charges Brittney received a nine-year prison sentence which led to ten months spent in Russian custody before being released as part of a prisoner exchange.

The experience has clearly left an impression on her; “I appreciate everything a little bit more now,” said Griner after this game. “All the little, small moments. I used to say, ‘oh, I’m so tired, I don’t want to go to practice today’. I think that has changed.”

“I’m just appreciating everything because tomorrow is not guaranteed. You don’t know what it’s going to look like.”