July 20th 2023.
Brittney Griner's return to the WNBA All-Star Game was a memorable one. She posted 18 points, 12 boards, and two blocks, as well as two electrifying dunks that had the Las Vegas crowd going wild. She couldn't help but be emotional during her first All-Star appearance since her 10-month detainment in Russia.
The crowd erupted when her name was called during the team introductions, and Griner placed her hand on her chest, a touching moment that was captured on Instagram. After the game, Griner told ESPN, "What you see on the court is fun, but in the locker room before the game, that's where all the little moments that you take away always happen."
Griner had a truly special night. Her first bucket was the one-hand flush she has been known for since her high school days at Nimitz High School. She seemed to be enjoying every moment on the court, often flashing a huge grin as she moved up and down the court.
It is no surprise that Griner was at the center of the All-Star Game, considering what the WNBA did for her during her detainment in Russia. The league dedicated the 2022 season to her, and many of the players kept in contact with her as much as they were allowed. Additionally, the WNBA created a prioritization rule requiring players to return from their overseas teams before the season start date of May 19.
Griner's return to the All-Star Game was the perfect example of what basketball stars are willing to do for their sport. Unfortunately, they can make three times their WNBA supermax salary overseas. In response, Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier are creating a 3-on-3 league based in Miami that will reportedly pay players close to their current league salaries in the offseason.
When asked about her potential involvement in the league, Griner said, "Well, I'm never going overseas again, so I think I'm free. But I think it's amazing what they're doing. Whether I play in it or not, I'm definitely going to be around and watching and being there."
Griner's return to the All-Star Game was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women in sports. Her performance was a celebration of the progress that has been made and an acknowledgement of the work still left to be done.
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