The basketball world witnessed one of the most heroic stories in 2022. In February last year, news broke out that former WNBA champion, Brittney Griner was unjustly detained in Russia. The news sent shockwaves across the basketball world, leading to several major political implications.

The 2 time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year spent 10 months in detention on Russian soil before returning to the United States in December last year. Her heroic return was marked by celebrations across the basketball community. After her return to her motherland, she also made a stunning comeback to the WNBA, much to the fans’ excitement. The incident however, may have left a permanent scar in the WNBA star’s mind.

Brittney Griner’s heroic comeback

An international fiasco like the 2022 incident could have a life altering impact. However, the 32-year-old Brittney Griner made a heroic comeback from this incident. She was held captive in Russia for 10 months after she was alleged to be carrying cannabis oil in her luggage on her arrival in Moscow. This led to a series of major political actions, including a prisoner swap to get the 9 time WNBA All Star back to the United States. However, Griner’s heroic journey did not stop there.

After her return, she immediately expressed her desire to play in the WNBA again. She signed a one year $165,100 contract to rejoin the Phoenix Murcury upon her return. Interestingly, she returned like she had not left at all.

Griner made an incredible return, earning an All Star nod immediately. She averaged an impressive 18.2 PPG and 6.7 RPG to prove that despite her international ordeal, she has not lost a step. However, the effects of her detention may not have worn off yet.

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The Phoenix Mercury are all set to embark on their two game road trip to Chicago and Indiana. However, they may have to continue their journey without the former No.1 pick, Griner.

Griner states unresolved issues

The 2 time WNBA Peak Performer has had a terrific season in the league so far. She also made an incredible comeback to the All Star game, receiving a warm welcome back from the WNBA world. However, the adversities she faced in Russia may have taken a toll on her mental state.

Griner announced that she will not be travelling with the Mercury on their two game road trip. She cited mental health as the reason for her decision to not travel with the franchise. The franchise too, seemed to fully support Griner’s decision. “The Mercury fully support Brittney and we will continue to work together on a timeline for her return,” their statement read.

With this decision, Griner gets some time off basketball to work on her mental health. After a draining stay in Russia, Griner’s decision to not travel with the team may help her work through the situation better. However, the team will have to operate without Griner’s services.

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Despite Griner’s dominant performance this season, the Mercury have had an underwhelming season. They currently hold the 10th place in the WNBA standings with a poor 6-17 record. After their road trip to Chicago and Indiana, they will look forward to Griner’s return. The 9 time All Star too, will get a much needed break following her decision.