Kim Kardashian Reacts To Brittney Griner’s Release

Kim Kardashian shared her support for WNBA star Brittney Griner on her Instagram Story, Saturday. She shared a tweet that called for the release of Americans imprisoned for drug offenses.

“If we can get Brittney Griner out of a Russian prison for weed, surely we can free Americans who are sitting in American prisons for the same thing,” the tweet reads. A user named @TyHobsonPowell posted the tweet.

LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 18: Kim Kardashian West at her first-ever KKW Beauty and Fragrance pop-up opening at Westfield Century City in Los Angeles on June 20th, 2018 (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for ABA)

It isn’t the first time that Kardashian has lent her platform towards advocating for the WNBA star’s release. Back in July, she wrote on Instagram, “FreeBrittneyGriner.”

Russia released Griner in a prisoner swap that involved arms dealer Viktor Bout, last Thursday.

“She’s safe, she’s on a plane, she’s on her way home,” President Joe Biden said at the White House on Thursday morning. He later described her situation as “untolerable circumstances.”

“Brittney will soon be back in the arms of her loved ones, and she should have been there all along,” he added.

On the plane flying home, Griner remarked, “I have been in prison for 10 months now, listening to Russian. I want to talk.”

Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens told CNN that Griner spoke with everyone she could on the flight.

“And she moved right past me and went to every member on that crew, looked them in the eyes, shook their hands and asked about them, got their names, making a personal connection with them,” Carstens said.

Russian customs officials detained Griner after finding cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage.

Check out Kardashian’s Instagram Story below.

Image via Instagram @kimkardashian

Brittney Griner Ditched Her Locs To Endure Winter Weather In Russia

WNBA star Britney Griner is finally free after being arrested this past February and sent to a Russian labor camp. Now back in the states, many were shocked to find that the famed athlete no longer had locs and was instead sporting a low cut.

According to her lawyer, Maria Blagovolina, the decision to cut her hair was due to the cold weather in Russia. 

Per ESPN, the attorney shared that the Phoenix Mercury player shaved her hair weeks ago, saying, “It’s very cold in there and every time she washed her hair she got cold and would get a chill.”

“She should have waited until New Year’s Day,” Blagovolina added, also revealing that Griner was sick with the flu recently.

READ MORE: Trump Calls Brittney Griner Release “Unpatriotic” & “Stupid”

Griner was released this past Thursday (Dec. 8) after spending 10 months in custody overseas. The Houston native was sentenced to nine years behind bars after cannabis vape cartridges were found in her luggage while at an airport in Moscow. 

TOPSHOT – US Women National Basketball Association’s (WNBA) basketball player Brittney Griner, who was detained at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport and later charged with illegal possession of cannabis, leaves the courtroom before the court’s final decision in Khimki outside Moscow, on August 4, 2022. – Russian prosecutors requested that US basketball star Brittney Griner be sentenced to nine and a half years in prison on drug smuggling charges. Her hearing comes with tensions soaring between Moscow and Washington over Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine that has sparked international condemnation and a litany of Western sanctions. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / POOL / AFP) (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The Biden Administration successfully performed a prison swap, trading Griner for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. Often referred to as the “Merchant of Death,” Bout was sentenced to 25 years in prison back in 2012.

Cherelle Griner, the basketball star’s wife, had been working to bring her back home for months. On Thursday morning, she was invited over to the White House where she met with Biden. The U.S. president then delivered the good news that her spouse was soon on her way back.

He also took to Twitter to announce the deal.

While on her flight back home, Griner appeared to be in good spirits, simply commenting, “I’m happy.”

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Brittney Griner To Receive Medical Evaluation In San Antonio Army Hospital

Brittney Griner

WNBA star Brittney Griner was recently transferred to an Army hospital in San Antonio, Texas. She was freed from a Moscow penal colony after being imprisoned for 10 months for possession of marijuana oil. Updated 12/09/2022 at 3:04 pm by Michael Omoruan Griner, star center for the Phoenix Suns, was freed after spending 288 days […]

The post Brittney Griner To Receive Medical Evaluation In San Antonio Army Hospital appeared first on SOHH.com.

Trump Calls Brittney Griner Release “Unpatriotic” & “Stupid”

As people celebrate Brittney Griner returning home, Donald Trump isn’t a happy camper. The former president previously made his lack of support for Griner’s case clear, but now that she’s been released from a Russian prison, he is issuing new statements. Griner was arrested earlier this year after being found with a small amount of cannabis oil while traveling through a Russian airport. The case gained international attention as Griner went to trial. When she was sentenced to nine years in prison, her supporters championed causes centering on her release.

“What kind of a deal is it to swap Brittney Griner, a basketball player who openly hates our Country, for the man known as ‘The Merchant of Death,’ who is one of the biggest arms dealers anywhere in the World, and responsible for tens of thousands of deaths and horrific injuries,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Read More: Donald Trump Says The U.S. Shouldn’t Have To Bail Brittney Griner Out

He also stated: “Why wasn’t former Marine Paul Whelan included in this totally one-sided transaction? He would have been let out for the asking. What a ‘stupid’ and unpatriotic embarrassment for the USA!!!”

The former president’s MAGA supporters have also co-signed his take on social media. Meanwhile, his opposers have brought up his controversial moments in politics pertaining to the release of prisoners under his tenure.

Read More: Brittney Griner Release Footage Surfaces Online

Additionally, Griner’s wife, Cherelle, spoke out when news of the WNBA star’s release was shared.

“Over the last nine months, you all have been so privy to one of the darkest moments of my life,” said Cherelle. “And so today I am just standing here overwhelmed with emotions, but the most important emotion that I have right now is just sincere gratitude for President Biden and his entire administration. He just mentioned this work is not easy and it has not been.”

Take a look at the footage of Griner being transferred from Russia back to the United States below.

Brittney Griner Gives Update Following Prison Release: “I’m Happy”

Brittney Griner is finally a free woman. After serving 294 days in a Russian prison, she’s on her way back home to the United States.

Previously, the WNBA star made headlines due to her nine-year prison sentence for drug possession in the foreign country. She was arrested on February 17 for attempting to bring cannabis with her on a trip.

Phoenix Mercury fan Carley Givens takes a photo of a “Black Lives Matter” mural depicting Brittney Griner outside the Footprint Center on December 08, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. ((Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The sentence was not far off from the maximum that she was facing. Prosecutors had asked for a 9.5 year sentence in the trial. 

Four months later, the 32-year-old is on her way back home after a prison swap got official approval.

President Joe Biden consequently made the announcement yesterday (December 8) via Twitter. In the photos, POTUS and Vice President Kamala Harris are seen talking with the athlete’s wife, Cherelle Griner, in the White House. 

In a video of newly-released Griner en route back home on the plane, the Phoenix Mercury star looks undoubtedly thrilled. When asked about her mood, she simply responds “I’m happy” with a smile.

Rumours surrounding a possible prison swap in order to get Griner home previously began going around for a few months now.

The exchange between the U.S. and Russia was a one-for-one swap. Surprisingly, international arms dealer Viktor Bout was freed by the U.S. in order to bring Griner home.

In Russian footage, the world was witness to the trade taking place on the tarmac of a United Arab Emirates airport.

The Russian arms dealer has a gruesome nickname – “Merchant of Death.” Of course, this has sparked some debate about the fairness of the exchange.

Others have chimed in, suggesting that another detained American should have been freed instead of the WNBA player. Paul Whelan is a former U.S. marine, who was detained by Russian authorities in 2018.

Two years, later he was sentenced to 16 years in prison for his alleged involvement in an intelligence operation. However, he is still presently serving this time.

Nonetheless, the U.S. is standing by the swap. Officials are indicating that the country didn’t have a choice of which American to bring home.

Let us know your thoughts on the trade down below. Additionally, make sure to stay tuned to HNHH for the latest updates on Griner’s return home.

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Steph Curry Uses His “Sports Illustrated” Speech To Shout Out Brittney Griner

Steph Curry had a massive year. Just a few months ago, he won his fourth NBA title, this time, against the Boston Celtics. Additionally, he broke the record for most career three-point shots. It was a phenomenal record to break, and it goes to show just how good Curry is.

Consequently, Curry has been awarded Sportsperson of the Year by Sports Illustrated. The awards ceremony for this honor took place last night, and Curry got to make a big speech. During this speech, Curry made sure to shout out Brittney Griner, who was recently freed from a Russian prison.

Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors is guarded by Jabari Smith Jr. #1 of the Houston Rocket at Chase Center on December 03, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Steph Curry Speaks

As you can see in the clip below, provided by TMZ, Curry was excited about Griner’s release. Additionally, he noted that this couldn’t have happened without the activists who advocated for the WNBA star.

“We are glad she’s home, we’re glad she’s reunited with her family,” Curry said. “It’s a constant reminder for everybody continuing to use their platforms to speak on issues that are meaningful and can move the needle.”

Furthermore, Curry thanked President Joe Biden. He also made sure to acknowledge others who have been incarcerated abroad. Needless to say, it was a very poignant and topical speech.

“Thank you to President Biden’s administration for being a part of that fight,” Curry said. “But, it’s also a reminder that we all need to stay engaged in the fight to protect American citizens at home and abroad who are wrongfully detained, and we can continue to be engaged in that fight.”

Let us know what you thought of Curry’s speech, in the comments down below. As always, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news from the sports world.

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LeBron James Reacts To Brittney Griner’s Release

LeBron James is one of the most vocal players in the NBA when it comes to social issues. He has always made sure to be politically conscious. Subsequently, this has led to numerous statements on Brittney Griner. During her incarceration, LeBron was one of the loudest voices demanding that we bring her home.

On Thursday, Griner was officially released via prisoner swap. Last night, Griner was able to land in the United States, and she appeared to be in good spirits. Overall, it is a positive story for the basketball world as Griner will now get to be with her family again.

LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers runs down court during the first quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on December 06, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

LeBron James Speaks

Last night, LeBron got to speak on the Griner release during a special Thursday Night Football edition of The Shop. As you can imagine, LeBron James was very excited about Griner’s release. Moreover, he noted that the U.S. needs to work on bringing even more people home.

“I think it’s a great day for us as Americans having BG back,”  LeBron explained. “In the sports world, just having her presence back. Her wife misses her. Her family misses her. Club misses her here in Phoenix. To have her a part of the basketball brother and sisterhood once again, it’s a big day for us and what we do. Kudos to the President. Kudos (to) Kamala Harris and everyone who had something to do with it.

“Like Mav said, there’s a lot of people that’s wrongfully detained right now. We hope we can get them all back.”

At this point, many are trying to get Paul Whelan home as well. The former marine is currently being held on espionage chargers, and the Russian government won’t let him go. Needless to say, many are up in arms over this situation.

Stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest news on this developing story.

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[WATCH] Russian State Media Releases Footage of Brittney Griner-Viktor Bout Swap

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On Thursday, Brittney Griner was released from Russia in a prisoner swap for arms dealer Viktor Bout. In a recently released video, Griner and Bout crossed paths as they were exchanged for each other at an airport in the United Arab Emirates.

The swap was filmed by the Russian State media outlet TASS. You can see Griner in red walking with officials and swapping for Bout. Everyone shook hands. Griner no longer has her dreadlocks, as they have been cut off.

Another video showed Griner stating on a plane she was “Good” and “happy” to be released.

The post [WATCH] Russian State Media Releases Footage of Brittney Griner-Viktor Bout Swap appeared first on The Source.

Brittney Griner Release Footage Surfaces Online

Earlier today, Brittney Griner was officially released from a Russian prison. Griner had been stationed in a labor camp where she was going to serve nine years for drug possession. However, the United States government was able to negotiate a prisoner swap.

The man going back to Russia is notorious arms dealer Viktor Bout, who is known as the merchant of death. He is a dangerous man, although he was the United States’ one shot at bringing home Griner. Additionally, the U.S. tried to free Paul Whelan, although Russia was unwilling.

Brittney Griner #42 of the Phoenix Mercury warms up before Game Five of the 2021 WNBA Playoffs semifinals against the Las Vegas Aces at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 8, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Brittney Griner Meets Viktor Bout

Of course, there has been quite a lot of backlash online about the United States’ negotiation tactics. Many feel like the U.S. looks weak by allowing Bout to go back to Russia. One such person is former Trump administration higher-up John Bolton.

Bolton made a statement on Twitter, however, the bigger story was the footage that @chronology22 left as a reply. This footage was taken by Russian state media, and it depicts Griner signing her release forms. As you can see, her hair has been cut short, and she was all smiles while signing the release. Furthermore, we even saw footage of her on the tarmac in the UAE where she came face-to-face with Bout while heading to her final plane home.

This marks the end of an incredibly dark time in Griner’s life. For months, her family, the government, and the WNBA have been trying to bring her home. Now, she will finally get to be with her wife Cherelle again.

This remains a developing story, so stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest news and updates. Additionally, let us know what you think of this footage, in the comments below.

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Kyrie Irving Delivers Message To Brittney Griner

Kyrie Irving is someone who is not scared to speak on issues that matter to him. While he has gotten in trouble for some of his takes, there are certainly moments where he makes some poignant remarks. One of those instances came when he supported Brittney Griner in front of a sold-out Barclays Center.

Subsequently, Griner has officially been released from Russian prison. The good news was announced today as the United States was able to come through with a prisoner swap. Overall, many are happy with the news as it brings forth the conclusion to a distressing saga.

Brittney Griner #42 and Diana Taurasi #3 of the Phoenix Mercury reacts to a foul call in the second half during the game against the Chicago Sky at Footprint Center on October 10, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Mike Mattina/Getty Images)

Kyrie Speaks

Consequently, Kyrie is feeling pretty happy today. Irving was always a huge supporter of Griner and the efforts to bring her home. Now that she will get to see her family again, Irving has taken to Twitter with a message for the WNBA superstar.

“Welcome Home BG! Thank you for exemplifying what a true Warrior spirit looks like. You’re forever loved by so many unconditionally,” he wrote. If you have been following this story, you know that everyone wanted her home by Christmas. It seemed like an impossible task, but now, she will get to be her with wife Cherelle, very soon.

Griner’s release has also brought about quite a bit of controversy. For instance, many are upset that Marine Paul Whelan was left in a Russian jail. He has been there for four years, and people want answers. However, the truth is, the situation isn’t so simple. Russia sees him as a spy, so they won’t release him, no matter what.

Stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest news pertaining to this story. Also, let us know what you think about all of this, in the comments below.

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