Following the Brittney Griner Saga, WNBA Players Boycott the Russian League While Exploring Other Avenues

Almost a year ago,?Brittney Griner?was arrested on drug possession charges. For ten months, the WNBA and NBA community focused on fighting for the WNBA Star and her release from the prisons of Russia. Each day they kept her name alive by using the words??We are BG.??Their efforts, along with those of the Biden Administration, were successful as in the second week of December, Brittney flew back to her homeland. This was possible after the Russians agreed to release Griner in exchange for the Merchant of Death, Victor Bout (an arms dealer). Following this saga, WNBA players have decided to boycott the Russian League while dabbling their way into other leagues worldwide.?

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During the off-season, some WNBA stars fly to different parts of the world to play ball. They do this for the love of the game and to maintain a steady and healthy income. The Russian league was one of the most popular leagues among the WNBA players. However, now, a boycott is in order.?

Brittney Griner saga results in a boycott

As reported by the Associated Press,??67 of the league?s 144 players??have opted to play in countries like Australia, Turkey, and Italy. The WNBA Commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, spoke to the media in December. She said,??Our players are going to do what?s best for them in consultation with their families and their agents.?

Further, she vowed to provide them opportunities within the States during the off-season. She said,??We?re certainly going to provide them more opportunities to do things with the league in the offseason, and keep the momentum going around the great play that they put on the court every year.?

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Despite these promises, WNBA players have focused on contributing to leagues aboard. This is based on one aspect primarily – the aspect of money. As mentioned in the report, WNBA players want an equal share of the revenue generated. Until this is fulfilled, they are pushed to participate in leagues away from home to make ends meet.?

Travel issues once the WNBA commences?

Griner announced via Instagram that she would return to the WNBA while flaunting the Phoenix Mercury jersey. However, considering 2022?s events, the?question about her safety lingers.?Reports suggested that she would be given access to private planes, but this would seem unfair to other players who are allowed to fly in premium economy.?

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Many viewed this issue as an opportunity to improve facilities for those in the WNBA. The league is yet to comment on these recent developments.?