Brittney Griner thanks Biden for release, guarantees he goes to WNBA | will return the video

Basketball player Brittney Grinerin his first statements after returning to the United States after nearly a year in captivity in Russia. That Friday, he thanked everyone campaigning for his release and assured that he wants to rejoin the WNBA.

“It’s so nice to be home! The past ten months have been a constant struggle,” the Olympic champion said in a statement posted to Instagram, adding.

I gathered strength to keep my faith and it was the love of many of you that kept me going. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for your help.

Griner was arrested at a Russian airport in February and sentenced to nine years in prison in August for drug possession and smuggling. Last week, a deal was announced with Russian authorities to release her in exchange for the arms dealer. Victor Maas.

Griner, one of the WNBA’s biggest stars, gave special thanks to his wife Cherelle Griner, his close circle, “the entire WNBA family” and the team of Russian lawyers working on his case; more specified.

And, of course, a special thanks to President Biden, Vice President Harris, Secretary of State Blinken, and the entire Biden-Harris administration. President Biden, you brought me home and I know you are determined to bring Paul Whelan and all Americans home too. I will use my platform to do what I can to help you. I also encourage everyone who contributed to bringing me home to continue their efforts to bring all Americans home.

Finally, Griner spoke about his sporting future and assured that he intended to return to court.

I also want to make one thing clear: I plan to play basketball for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury this season and I look forward to personally saying “thank you” soon to those of you who have advocated for me, who have written or posted for me.

The pact also did not include American Paul Whelan, sentenced to 16 years for espionage.

(With information from EFE)