Brittney Griner Overjoyed by American Prisoner Swap with Russia

Brittney Griner, the two-time Olympic gold medalist, expressed her joy and relief as she learned about the successful prisoner swap that brought two Americans home from Russia. Griner, who had her own experience with a high-profile prisoner exchange in 2022, was thrilled to hear that Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and corporate security executive Paul Whelan were coming home after being convicted of espionage charges that the U.S. government deemed baseless.

Griner, who returned to the U.S. in December 2022 after being sentenced to nine years in jail in Russia, shared her emotions on the news, stating that she was “head over heels happy for the families right now.” She emphasized the significance of Americans coming home as a win and a cause for celebration.

Since her return to the U.S., Griner has been actively involved in supporting other Americans detained in foreign countries, working with organizations like Bring Our Families Home. She has also spoken with President Joe Biden to keep the detainees at the forefront of everyone’s minds.

As Griner competes in the Paris Games with the U.S. women’s basketball team, she continues to navigate the readjustment to life back in the U.S. Her teammates and coach, Cheryl Reeve, expressed their happiness for the families of Gershkovich and Whelan and their support for Griner, knowing the emotional journey she has been through.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Griner remains focused on winning gold at the Olympics and is grateful for the resources available to help the returning Americans reintegrate into everyday life. Her resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to many, both on and off the court.