Some members of the Boston Celtics are using their platform at the NBA’s title series to add their voices to the chorus of those demanding WNBA star Brittney Griner be allowed to come home.
The WNBA star has been detained in Russia for more than 100 days — wrongfully so, U.S. officials insist — and some members of the Boston Celtics are using their platform at the NBA’s title series to add their voices to the chorus of those demanding she be allowed to come home.
"We felt like it was a good idea to use our availability and our platforms to bring attention to certain matters," said Celtics guard Jaylen Brown, an officer within the National Basketball Players Association. "I always stand for that. Being an athlete, we’re not just up here just to entertain you guys. We also have a voice. I always appreciate and applaud athletes, entertainers, my teammates who plan to do something with that.
"It’s been now over 100 days since she’s been illegally held in Russia," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. "I think it’s something that all of us should be heard on, contacting your representatives and others. I will only say we are working in lockstep with the U.S. government and outside experts on trying to expedite her release in any way we can. Certainly our hearts go out to her and her family, and we are just as eager for her safe return.