Brittney Griner Returns To Court In First WNBA Action Since Russian Detainment, in her first court appearance since being detained in Russia, Brittney Griner
About an hour and a half prior to Phoenix Mercury’s game on Friday night, Brittney Griner made her way along the sideline, hugging and high-fiving her teammates, coaches, and opponents.
After that, there was more shooting practice, stretching, and agility exercises to be ready for a basketball game.
just like before Without a doubt, I’m grateful to be here, Griner remarked. “I’m not going to take today for granted.”
Since his nearly 10-month detention in Russia on drug-related accusations came to an end with a prisoner swap in December, Griner hasn’t played in a game again. The seven-time All-Star, who was detained for the entirety of the 2022 season, finished with 10 points in a WNBA preseason game against the Los Angeles Sparks, and three rebounds.

Despite the lengthy break, the 6-foot-9 Griner looked good when he nonchalantly sank a one-handed slam during warmups. When she was presented prior to tipoff, the home audience gave her a thunderous standing ovation as she stood with her teammates during the playing of the national anthem.

Hearing the national anthem “hit different,” according to Griner. It’s similar like when you compete in the Olympics; as you sit there waiting to get the gold medal and as the national song begins to play, something new happens.