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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

WNBA superstar Brittney Griner has finally been released after her prolonged detention in a Russian penal colony. She returned back to the United States of America after Moscow and Washington negotiated a prisoner swap deal involving arms dealer Viktor Bout. This has led to many celebrities and public figures, like LeBron James, speaking out on the issue.

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When asked about Griner in a recent interview, James seemed elated about her release. He talked about the timing of the release and welcomed her back home with open arms. 

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A few months ago, he had shown his solidarity for the exiled basketball star in a unique way. However, his words had attracted a lot of flak from different sections of society.

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LeBron James comments on the Brittney Griner situation

Four-time NBA champion and Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is known for speaking out openly on socio-political issues around the world. James recently spoke out on Brittney Griner’s release after consistently demanding her freedom for months. Griner was arrested earlier this year when officials found traces of cannabis oil in her belongings.

READ MORE: “He is the LeBron James of Arms Dealing” – After Brittney Griner Gets Released From Russia, Hasan Piker Gives His Bold Take On The Matter

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James said, “It’s amazing. Especially around the holidays, she can be with her family and get back. For us, as a brotherhood and sisterhood, we welcome her with open arms and love and support and are just happy to have her back home on U.S. soil, that’s for sure.” Fellow Lakers superstar Anthony Davis also joined his teammate in welcoming Griner.

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USA Today via Reuters

“It’s always good to have one of your own back”, said Davis. A few years ago, Davis and Brittney were rumored to be engaged while some sources reported that they were in a committed relationship. Since then, Davis had debunked any rumors of their engagement on social media.

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James clarified his Griner comments after backlash

LeBron James’ comments a few months ago did not receive the reception he expected. The four-time NBA champion addressed Griner’s arrest on ‘The Shop’  and claimed that she probably wouldn’t want to return to America with the kind of treatment she’s receiving from her country. This was perceived by many as Anti-American.

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James had afterwards clarified, “I was simply saying how she’s probably feeling emotionally along with so many other emotions, thoughts, etc inside that cage she’s been in for over 100+ days!”. Similar to James, Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving, and many other NBA stars were very supportive of Griner during this phase.

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What are your thoughts on Brittney Griner’s release? Let us know in the comments down below.

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Written by

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Abhinava Ghosh

1,823 Articles

Abhinava Ghosh is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports with a wealth of experience covering the league. He has written over 1400 articles for EssentiallySports, showcasing his expertise in analyzing and reporting on NBA trade rumors, injury updates, and the ever-changing dynamics of the league. He had successfully covered the entire Kevin Durant trade saga at Brooklyn, which led to the basketball legend’s move to the Desert. He also kept our readers updated on the Brittney Griner situation throughout her exile in Russia. One of Abhinava's proudest moments came in 2015 when the Golden State Warriors won the NBA title after 40 years. As a lifelong fan of the Dubs, Abhinava was thrilled to see his team reach the pinnacle of the sport, but he remained objective and professional in his reporting.

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Satagni Sikder

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