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Brittney Griner’s Wife Speaks Out As WNBA Star Is Detained In Russia

By Autumn Hawkins
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - OCTOBER 10: Brittney Griner #42 of the Phoenix Mercury durring pregame warmups at Footprint Center on October 10, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

Brittney Griner’s wife, Cherelle T. Griner, is speaking out on the WNBA star’s behalf after it was reported she had been detained in Russia for several weeks.

“Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me regarding my wife’s safe return from Russia. Your prayers and support are greatly appreciated. I love my wife wholeheartedly, so this message comes during one of the weakest moments of my life,” Cherelle captioned a photo of the two smiling on the beach. “I understand that many of you have grown to love BG over the years and have concerns and want details. Please honor our privacy as we continue to work on getting my wife home safely. Thank you!”

Russian officials said Griner was detained after they found vape cartridges containing oil derived from cannabis in her luggage at the Sheremetyevo airport near Moscow per NBC.

The offense could land the basketball star 10 years in prison.

Griner has played over in Russia for the past seven years. The last time she played in a game was Jan. 29 for the Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg before the two-week hiatus in February for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournaments.

Griner’s home team, The Phoenix Mercury, released a statement eager for the athlete’s return back to the United States.

“We love and support Brittney and at this time our main concern is her safety, physical and mental health, and her safe return home,” the team said.

The USA Basketball league also expressed concern with Griner’s return.

“Brittney has always handled herself with the utmost professionalism during her long tenure with USA Basketball and her safety and wellbeing are our primary concerns,” the tweet said.

Per the outlet, the State Department has issued a “do not travel” advisory for U.S. citizens thinking of heading to Russia as the Ukraine/Russia conflict escalates.

Look at the outpouring of support for Brittney from fans:

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    https://twitter.com/Deseann/status/1500846316884267014

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    https://twitter.com/rgay/status/1500161619871076357

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    https://twitter.com/AdrienneLaw/status/1500167960987521025

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