While a much anticipated WNBA season began over the weekend, reminders are constant of the clear missing piece in the league's return. Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner missed the team's opener Saturday, as she remains detained in Russia among accusations of illegal drug possession.
Griner's case has seen widespread attention back in her home country, and her peers in the NBA are bringing it to the forefront. The Phoenix Suns vowed to honor her by placing “BG42” on their home court through the rest of the playoffs, and their star point guard made his support evident.
Chris Paul entered the press room after the Suns' 110-80 win over the Dallas Mavericks sporting a T-shirt with Griner's likeness toward the bottom. He had strong words of support for the nine-year WNBA vet.
“This ain't even just an NBA/WNBA thing. I think everybody wants her home,” veteran Suns star Chris Paul told reporters. “She's a huge part of the community here. I support her, just want to try to get her home as soon as possible.”
The U.S. government is now involved with her case, declaring last week that Griner is “wrongfully detained” by the Russian government nearly three months after her initial arrest. Suns players are rallying around the seven-time WNBA All-Star and WNBA champion, with whom they share a practice facility with.
“It's all in support of BG. We miss her, we miss seeing her in the practice facility day-in and day-out,” Paul said. “So, just trying to get her home.”
Follow Us
Subscribe
