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Jailed WNBA star Brittney Griner has been in Russia ever since her controversial arrest back in February. During this time, she has garnered support from fans, activists, and celebrities all across the world. Numerous people have joined hands to demand her swift release. And now similar efforts could come to the aid of other Americans who are detained overseas.

As US officials try their best to negotiate a prisoner swap deal with Russia, a massive initiative to support Griner has taken ground. T-Shirts with a special message for BG were recently endorsed by South Carolina coach Dawn Staley and Stanford coach Tara VanDerveer. Interestingly enough, the t-shirts will be available for sale soon with some of the profits going to an organization dedicated to American citizens detained abroad.

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Special Brittney Griner campaign can help thousands like her

Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner has spent a long and hard time in Russia. Officials detained her in February when they found vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage. Subsequently, she underwent a long legal process and was sentenced to nine years in prison by the Russian judiciary. 

However, not all hope is lost. A prisoner swap deal is possible that can bring her back home. People across the world have shown their support for Griner during this tough period.

Recently, Dawn Staley and Tara VanDerveer extended their support to Griner. They sported long sleeve shirts supporting Griner with a message for her written in the back.

READ MORE: After Spending Time with Brittney Griner in Russia, Freed Inmate Still Stranded: REPORT

The message read, “Dear BG: We love you and are fighting for you. Millions of us are uplifting your name every chance we get, and we won’t stop until you are home. We hope our love and support reaches you and ultimately sets you free.”

The shirts are expected to be available for sale soon with some of the profits going to a noble cause. The profits would go to the Bring Our Families Home Campaign and the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation which advocate the human rights of Americans detained in other countries.

A positive result is expected from the Griner swap deal

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Amidst the wave of bad news for Griner’s family and legal team, there is finally something to look forward to. According to a Russian official, he expects a ‘positive’ result from the talks being held for the potential prisoner swap deal.

Paul Whelan, a former US Marine stands the chance of going back to the United States alongside Griner in case the officials reach a deal. On the other hand, Viktor Bout, nicknamed the ‘Merchant of Death’, will be sent back to Russia.

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