Brittney Griner opens up about representing Team USA at Olympics after incarceration in Russia

Now, Griner is set to represent Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, and she describes the opportunity as "everything" to her.

"It means everything to me, honestly," Griner told The Associated Press. "To have the honor of wearing the USA jersey again and potentially win gold is the icing on the cake."

A 10-time WNBA All-Star, Griner played a crucial role in securing gold for Team USA at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2021 Olympics. Despite some debate over her eligibility due to past criticisms of her country, her team remains fully supportive.

"Think beyond the Olympics; consider her personal journey and what she has endured," said U.S. coach Cheryl Reeve. "We were all thinking of BG while she was away and didn't know if this moment would even be possible. I'm thrilled for her personally and excited for our basketball team."

Russian authorities detained Griner in 2022 as she attempted to return to the U.S., charging her with illegal possession of vape cartridges containing hashish oil.

Griner is not concerned about similar issues impacting her participation with Team USA.

"It's different now; we are so well-protected by the staff around us," she said. "The level of comfort and security we have now makes it a lot easier."

Team USA has never lost an Olympic womenâ™s basketball competition, and Griner is determined to keep that streak alive.

"Hopefully, everything goes as planned, and we hear the anthem playing," Griner said, referring to the U.S. winning an eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal. "It's going to be even more emotional this time."

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