The decision to bring Brittney Griner home in exchange for Viktor Bout and leave ex-marine Paul Whelan behind has drawn divided opinions among people. Many supporters have welcomed the decision, while some critics have also condemned it deeming Whelan’s situation as a failure of the state. Recently, Los Angeles Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar broke his silence on the Paul Whelan saga after BG’s release.

Brittney Griner finally found her freedom on December 8 after nearly ten months of detention in Russia. However, the State Department failed to secure the release of former marine Paul Whelan, who was a part of the initial deal offered by the US.

Whelan has been stuck in Russia for nearly four years after being arrested in 2018. He is currently serving a 16-year sentence in the IK-17 penal colony in Mordovia. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recently shared his opinion on the situation of Paul Whelan while expressing his joy for the release of Griner.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar shares his view on Brittney Griner-Paul Whelan scenario

In his recent Substack article, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar shared that he was excited and relieved about the return of Brittney Griner after her ‘horrendous ordeal’ in Russia. Moreover, the six-time NBA champ pointed out that President Joe Biden had assured that the State Department would remain dedicated towards the release of Paul Whelan.

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Kareem suggested that various media outlets had reported that American negotiators battled hard to bring Whelan home with the prisoner swap deal. However, Russia dismissed all offers that attempted to facilitate the ex-marine’s release. The Lakers legend added, “Various news outlets reported that American negotiators fought hard to have Whelan included in the swap but that Russia would not budge. Right now, we have to take the win that we can.”

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar felt that Brittney Griner’s release was a win for the nation. He reckoned that people needed to accept it despite the unfortunate situation for Whelan.

Kareem warns athletes to learn from Griner’s misfortunes

Brittney Griner’s detainment had terrified the athletes in recent times, who travel overseas for monetary purposes. Meanwhile, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar addressed the fact that many American athletes make more money abroad in comparison to the WNBA. However, he added warning after that, “But this should be a clear warning not to play for the Russian team again.”

Kareem advised the athletes to learn from Griner’s experience and warned them to refrain from playing for Russian teams. Moreover, he believed that no team should play against Russia in any sport until the country ceases its war on Ukraine.

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Do you agree with Kareem’s take? Let us know in the comments below.