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The 6.9 ft tall WNBA superstar Brittney Griner has been all over the media for the last couple of weeks. She is arguably one of the greatest female basketball players of all time, who stood beside the gymnastics GOAT in her Tokyo Olympics decision. At the time, Griner was one of the few people who supported Simone Biles for taking such a brave stance.

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However, at the moment, Brittney Griner is facing a tough time in her life. The Russian authorities detained the star center for the Phoenix Mercury in Moscow amid the Russia- Ukraine crisis. She was arrested on drug charges while in Russia to play during her WNBA off-season, and she has been in police custody since then.

Brittney Griner backed Simone Biles on her Tokyo Olympic decision

When Simone Biles withdrew from the Tokyo Olympics all-around event, the American gymnast was heavily criticized for her actions. However, amongst the people who supported her brave stance was the WNBA superstar Brittney Griner. The Phoenix Mercury center said, “I could feel where she was, and it hit close to home. I felt that one deep.”

Drawing comparison with her career, Griner further added, “Being sure you’re in a great mental state of mind isn’t the easiest thing, especially here at the Olympics. You see that everything is heightened.”

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Griner concluded by saying, “The pressure is heightened, the pride is heightened. Wanting to represent your country and do everything you possibly can to win is everywhere. For us as athletes, we feel that.”

Griner might go to prison for 10 years

Based on the charges and proceedings in her case, fans and her family are expecting a 10-year sentence for Griner. However, her trial is still in the process. Hence, there is still some hope. The WNBA star has already pleaded guilty and taken full responsibility for her actions. Though she further claimed that they denied her translations of her right and a lawyer at the time of her arrest.

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Although US officials from the embassy have been in touch with the Russian authorities on the matter, Griner’s future remains in threat. What do you make of Griner’s remarks made for Simone Biles back then? Do you agree with her? Let us know your valuable thoughts in the comments below.

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