![]() This is the real story of Brittney Griner, a singular American trailblazer on and off the court. It’s a story of women’s basketball players across the US and the world, a story of queer people who play sports, a story that highlights why so many WNBA players must continue to demand the respect they already deserve. It’s a story of confronting discrimination, breaking glass ceilings and leading radical change. Because her story has always been bigger than basketball – more important than championships and Olympic gold medals. ![]() Meanwhile, US media outlets have often failed to capture the full impact of Griner’s accomplishments. She has become a human bargaining chip amidst a raging war, trapped in the maze of hostage diplomacy. Regardless, experts say Griner’s trial will almost certainly end in conviction. On 7 July, she entered a guilty plea to the court, potentially clearing the way to expedite a political negotiation between the United States and Russia for her release. Her trial – considered a “ sham” by many – is only just beginning. She was arrested in February for alleged “large-scale transportation” of cannabis into Russia, on her way to rejoining her team in Ekaterinburg, where she has played EuroLeague ball since 2014, like so many other WNBA players who earn the bulk of their income during winters abroad.Ī week after Griner’s arrest, Russian president Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine.ĭespite a coordinated campaign from the WNBA and a growing grassroots movement demanding her freedom, there is no end in sight to Griner’s detainment. Photograph: Jesse D Garrabrant/NBAE/Getty Imagesī rittney Griner has spent nearly five months wrongfully detained in a Moscow prison. Griner answered immediately: “Definitely looking forward to the freedom.”īrittney Griner talks with ESPN’s Holly Rowe after being drafted No 1 overall by Phoenix Mercury during the 2013 WNBA draft in April 2013. But then ESPN host Holly Rowe asked, “How are you looking forward to playing with a little bit more freedom?” In a brief TV interview just moments later, she was nearly speechless, a bit breathless. It was the first day of the rest of her life. ![]() Looking “ fearlessly dapper”, the 6ft 9in Griner boldly stood in the spotlight. ![]() Pops of color emerged from argyle socks and a playful manicure featuring bright orange nail polish, a nod to her new team. She had never looked better, wearing an ivory suit with satin finishes and a matching vest underneath, the jacket tailored perfectly. So on draft night, the sports world watched as Brittney embraced her father Raymond, then strode to the stage. It wasn’t really a matter of deciding when to come out publicly, but rather, a question of when those in power would step out of her way. She had always wanted to be upfront about her sexual orientation. Because in that moment, Griner became the most prominent openly gay basketball player in the world. ![]()
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