Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James drew the ire of some for his controversial comments on WNBA star Brittney Griner, who has been detained in Russia since March. James said that Griner should question if she even wants to return to America while wondering out loud, “how can she feel America has her back?”
The comments aired on a trailer for an upcoming episode of the Lakers star's show, The Shop. Later on Tuesday, James set the record straight on his Griner comments in two tweets.
My comments on “The Shop” regarding Brittney Griner wasn’t knocking our beautiful country. I was simply saying how she’s probably feeling emotionally along with so many other emotions, thoughts, etc inside that cage she’s been in for over 100+ days! Long story short #BringHerHome
— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 13, 2022
— LeBron James (@KingJames) July 13, 2022
LeBron James said that his comments weren't “knocking our beautiful country.” The Lakers star went on to clarify that he was speaking about the emotions Griner has felt- and is likely feeling- during her Russia detainment.
James certainly took some heat for insinuating that Griner shouldn't be quick to return to the United States. However, it seems he was more or less saying that anyone would be thinking that if they were locked away for as long as she has been.
Griner has been detained since March after she was stopped at a Moscow airport. Officials found vape cartridges with cannabis oil in her luggage. She has since pleaded guilty to drug charges during her trial and faces up to 10 years in prison.
Through it all, James- and others- have been vocal about the country securing her release from Russia. Back in June, the Lakers star called for United States president Joe Biden and vice president Kamala Harris to take action.
It's clear that LeBron James is going to speak up for what he believes is right.
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