The return of WNBA star Brittney Griner has been met with an opposing force from the critics of Joe Biden. The Phoenix Mercury star was stuck in Russia for nearly ten months before the State Department agreed on a prison swap deal to secure her release. In exchange, the US authorities released convicted arms dealer Viktor Bout, infamously known as the ‘Merchant of Death’. Unfortunately for Griner, the decision that led to her release has been widely condemned by many factions. Recently, a Christian hate preacher questioned Griner’s gender in a wild tirade against the WNBA, resulting in a silent response from the church.

Renowned writer Hemant Mehta recently posted a video of Christian hate preacher, Paul Hanson, who ridiculed the 8-time WNBA All-Star. Moreover, he did not hold back from taking a shot a Griner’s identity.

Paul Hanson questions the gender of Brittney Griner

Hemant Mehta wrote in a recent tweet, “Christian hate-preacher Paul Hanson tried (what I can only assume is) his stand-up comedy routine in church, making “jokes” about Brittney Griner…He got the appropriate response: silence.”

Paul Hanson used sarcasm to question Joe Biden’s decision to go ahead with the prisoner swap that led to Viktor Bout’s freedom. Moreover, he also ended up mocking the WNBA. Hanson said,?“It’s the first time a WNBA trade has ever made headlines.”

Further, Hanson also questioned Brittney Griner’s gender with a harsh remark. The church hate preacher commented, “I guess another problem I have is I don’t think it’s even a woman. But I don’t know what’s going on there.”

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However, Hanson’s shot at the WNBA and Griner’s gender prompted a silent response from the crowd. At the same time, there is another reason why Joe Biden’s decision was condemned by people.

Paul Whelan remains stuck in Russia

The decision that led to Brittney Griner’s release turned out to be a nightmare for retired US Marine Paul Whelan. He still remains stuck in Russia after nearly four years. Whelan was a part of the original deal offered by the US. However, Russia refrained from freeing the ex-marine, as he was facing a more serious charge.

Paul was sentenced to 16 years in prison under espionage charges in 2018. He is currently held in the IK-17 penal colony in Mordovia. Meanwhile, Joe Biden assured that the State Department would continue to make efforts to free Whelan. Also, Brittney Griner has expressed her desire to use her power to secure the release of Whelan and other American citizens detained in foreign countries.

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Whelan’s prolonged detention is also one of the reasons why critics have condemned Biden’s decision that led to the WNBA star’s release.