By: Nina Samone
After the release of a trailer for LeBron James’ new show “The Shop: Uninterrupted,” some of his comments regarding the Brittney Griner incident received criticism – controversy followed in a hurry.
“The Shop: Uninterrupted,” is a show that takes place in a barbershop-like setting and features James having candid chats about current events with guests. LeBron said:
“Now, how can she feel like America has her back? I would be feeling like, ‘Do I even want to go back to America?’”
This is shortly after James was compared to Brittany Griner, in a conversation that went viral between reporters and head Phoenix Mercury coach Vanessa Nygaard. Nygaard stated that if it were LeBron instead of Brittany Griner, more efforts would be made.
LeBron later tweeted on social media to clarify his comments. He said:
“My comments on “The Shop” regarding Brittney Griner wasn’t knocking our beautiful country. I was simply saying how she’s probably feeling emotionally along with so many other emotions, thoughts, etc inside that cage she’s been in for over 100+ days! Long story short #BringHerHome.”
Griner’s wife has reached out to the Biden administration, and even Griner herself has written letters asking for help from her home country.
Russian authorities haven’t said much about her release being any time soon – the only information they have offered is that the trial must be complete before any moves can be made.
WNBA star Brittney Griner’s trial in Russia continues after she was apprehended in a Moscow airport all the way back in February – many are hoping for her to swiftly be returned to her home soil.
Sources:
Asmelash, Leah. July 13th, 2022. CNN. “LeBron James addresses Brittney Griner’s detainment in new trailer for ‘The Shop.’” <https://www.cnn.com/2022/07/12/entertainment/lebron-james-brittney-griner-cec/index.html>
