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Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner was a sensation even before making her WNBA debut when she played for the Baylor Bears. However, after all these years, it seems the city does not want to welcome her back. Griner spent over 200 days in a Russian prison and was recently released. A local church in Waco, Texas where Baylor is located, held a homecoming ceremony celebrating her release.

The ceremony did not have the reception it expected. A handful of people attended the ceremony, which throws a light on Griner’s dipping popularity.

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Ever since her controversial arrest, she has faced mixed responses to her situation. It seems the people of Waco are on the negative side of things, as they clearly show their disinterest in welcoming a former star.

Brittney Griner is not welcome in a place where she studied

It is not a secret that Brittney Griner has a lot of critics. She is quite open regarding her sexuality and her opinions on sensitive topics have landed her in trouble a number of times. 

While she was at Baylor, Griner had a lot of problems with her coach and the higher authorities. Despite all that, she was brilliant on the court and led her team to one of their best seasons ever.

It seems the people of Waco, Texas are not interested to welcome one of their former stars. During a recent homecoming ceremony being held in a local church, a grand total of 20 people showed up according to a report.

READ MORE: “That Wasn’t Propaganda”: Joe Rogan’s Stance on the Russian Narrative of WNBA Player Brittney Griner’s Swap Gets Opposed by Fans

The city and Griner have always had a strained relationship. Baylor happens to be the largest baptist Christian school in the world and some of its rules did not favor Griner.

People around the campus are not supportive of Griner

Some young adults hanging around 1 mile away from the Baylor campus were asked about their views on BG by ESPN. One of them replied, “I don’t think we should be talking about any of this”. Griner’s decreasing popularity even in a place where she became a star is quite evident.

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During her time at Baylor University, Brittney Griner broke multiple impressive records. She led the Baylor Bears to a 40-0 season in 2012 prior to her WNBA debut in 2013. Moreover, she has multiple accolades, including the WBCA Defensive Player of the Year and the AP Player of the Year.

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WATCH THIS STORY: “When They Play the National Anthem…”: WNBA Star Brittney Griner’s Homecoming Receives Another Cheeky Jibe From UFC Star

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