In a heartwarming display of solidarity and compassion, WNBA star Brittney Griner has expressed her happiness and relief following the release of Americans Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan from detention in Russia. Griner, who herself experienced a lengthy period of detainment in the country, voiced her elation while representing Team USA at the Paris Olympics.

Speaking from Paris, where she is competing in women's basketball for Team USA, Griner spoke about her overwhelming joy for the families of Gershkovich and Whelan. She emphasized that any day when Americans are brought back home is a triumph. Griner, who spoke to reporters after the U.S. women's basketball team's victory over Belgium, described finding out about their release as an emotional moment and expressed her gratitude that they will now be reunited with their loved ones.

The WNBA star, who spent 10 months detained in Russia, mentioned that she understood the emotional journey that Gershkovich and Whelan would go through, and highlighted the importance of having a strong support system during this challenging time. She praised the dedicated individuals who are committed to helping those detained and their families, expressing her own gratitude for the assistance she received in readjusting to everyday life after her release.

Griner's detainment in Russia occurred in February 2022 when she was accused of possessing vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is illegal in the country. The State Department expressed that she was wrongfully detained, and after pleading guilty to the charges in July 2022, Griner was released in December of the same year in a prisoner swap. Her advocacy for Americans wrongfully detained abroad soon followed.

Griner had hoped that Paul Whelan would be released alongside her during the prisoner swap. Her disappointment at his absence on the flight back home reflected her deep empathy and concern for his situation. She expressed her willingness to undergo the trade personally, stating that she would have gone back to Russia to bring him home if given the opportunity.

The release of Gershkovich and Whelan, who were both unjustly imprisoned in Russia, has brought renewed attention to the plight of individuals wrongfully detained abroad. Their cases, along with those of Alsu Kurmasheva and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who were also freed in the prisoner exchange, underscore the importance of continued efforts to secure the freedom of innocent individuals caught in such circumstances.

Brittney Griner's advocacy for Americans in similar situations has amplified the call for justice and due process. Her journey from detainment to becoming a spokesperson for the wrongfully imprisoned serves as a powerful reminder that compassion and support are essential in times of hardship and struggle.

As the Paris Olympics 2024 carry on, Griner's presence and resilience on the court mirror her strength and determination in her fight for justice and freedom. Her words of support and joy for the release of Gershkovich and Whelan resonate far beyond the sporting arena, reminding us all of the importance of compassion and solidarity in today's world.