Brittney Griner is still being detained in Russia following her February arrest, and despite the best efforts from Americans to bring her back to the United States, the situation is developing slowly. While the WNBA superstar remains in detention overseas, the league is doing its best to honor her amid the uncertain situation. Griner will be named as an honorary WNBA All-Star starter for the Western Conference this year, according to BleacherReport.
Brittney Griner has been named an honorary WNBA All-Star starter. pic.twitter.com/ELuVhT8BUu
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 22, 2022
Griner was arrested and detained back in February after she was arrested at an airport nearby Moscow. Russian airport officials allege she was carrying cannabis vape cartridges in her luggage at the time of her arrest. She has since spent more than four months in detention, while the United States has worked to bring her home.
Unfortunately, there's not much the WNBA can actively do in order to expedite Griner's return, but in a show of support, the league is naming her an All-Star starter. Griner will represent the Phoenix Mercury at the All-Star Game for the eighth time in her career, though she won't be in attendance for the actual event. The WNBA reportedly met with the US State Department last week to discuss her detention in Russia and what their next steps are. The State Department officially classified Griner as being wrongfully arrested back in May.
Griner has spent many years in Russia, playing for the basketball club UMMC Ekaterinburg during the WNBA offseason. She was initially arrested on Feb. 17, and has been in detention ever since.
Throughout her WNBA career, Griner has averaged 17.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game.
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