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LeBron James, Who Questioned Whether Brittney Griner Would Want to Return to USA, Breaks Silence on Her Release

Published 12/12/2022, 9:43 AM EST

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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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

James clarified his Griner comments after backlash

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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.

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:

Abhinava Ghosh

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Abhinava is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication. Abhinava has been following NBA for the past 6 years and is a huge fan of the Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry.
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Edited by:

Satagni Sikder