In February, WNBA star Brittney Griner was detained in an airport in Moscow because she had vapes with “narcotic cannabis oil” in her luggage. Griner has been held in Russia since, and it's unclear when she will return to the United States.
Three months after her detainment, Cherelle, Griner's wife, spoke to Robin Roberts on “Good Morning America.” During the interview, Cherelle asked President Joe Biden to take action.
“I just keep hearing that he has the power, she's a political pawn. So, if they're holding her because they want you [President Biden] to do something, then I want you to do it.”
Cherelle's “political pawn” reference is likely regarding the latest update on Griner's case. According to recent reports, the Biden administration is open to trading Russian convicted arms dealer Viktor Bout in exchange for the WNBA star.
Article Continues BelowCherelle said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken reached out to her, saying that Griner's safe return is a “top priority” for the US Government. The WNBA wife has her doubts.
“I don't know. I was grateful for their call,” she said. “You say she's top priority, but I want to see it. And I feel like to see it would be me seeing BG on US soil.”
Cherelle continues to fight for her wife's return. Meanwhile, the WNBA season is underway, and they haven't forgotten about Griner. Teams around the league have “BG 42,” Griner's initials and number for the Phoenix Mercury, on their courts. Cherelle said it is comforting to her, but more specifically, to Griner. “It lets her know she's not forgotten.”