Brittney Griner Returns to WNBA After Detention in Russia, Plays in First Preseason Game

Brittney Griner, a six-time All-Star in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), recently returned to the league after a highly publicized detention in Russia. On Tuesday, the Phoenix Mercury star played in her first preseason game, scoring 17 points and grabbing four rebounds in just 20 minutes of play.

The Detention

Griner was detained in Russia in February after being accused of assaulting her wife, fellow WNBA player Glory Johnson, during an altercation in the couple’s home. The incident occurred just days after the couple announced they were expecting twins. Johnson was also arrested, but charges against her were dropped when Griner plead guilty to disorderly conduct and was ordered to pay a fine. Griner was released from detention after three days and returned to the United States.

WNBA Return

After missing the first four games of the 2015 season while serving a seven-game suspension for her involvement in a brawl during a game the previous season, Griner played in just 15 games before leaving the Mercury to play overseas in Russia. She returned to the WNBA for the 2019 season and was named to the All-WNBA second team. After the 2020 season was held in a bubble due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Griner chose to stay overseas rather than participate in the abbreviated WNBA season.

Ready to Compete

Griner’s strong preseason game performance is an encouraging sign for the Mercury and their fans. The team finished with a 13-9 record in the 2020 season and advanced to the second round of the playoffs. With Griner back in the fold, the Mercury will look to compete for their fourth WNBA championship.

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#BrittneyGriner #WNBA #PhoenixMercury #Basketball #Preseason

Summary: Brittney Griner, a star player in the WNBA, played in her first preseason game after being detained in Russia for a domestic incident with her wife. Despite the setback, Griner is back and ready to help lead the Phoenix Mercury to another WNBA championship.

#NEWS