Britney Griner made a special appearance at the 2023 NAACP Image Awards on Sunday, just over a year after her first arrest in Russia.
“As we gather here tonight in the spirit of overcoming adversity, I want to take a moment to acknowledge someone who has done just that,” host Queen Latifah said while introducing the professional basketball player. “Back home, here with us tonight, where she belongs, our sister, Brittany Griner.”
Griner was arrested in Russia in February 2022 when customs officials said they found cannabis oil vape canisters in her luggage, The Associated Press reported. Her case quickly gained national attention because she is an openly gay black woman detained in a country where authorities are hostile to the LBGTQ community.
She was sentenced in August and remained imprisoned until December, when U.S. and Russian officials said Griner had been released in a dramatic high-level prisoner exchangewith the US releasing notorious Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.
When she and her wife Cherelle Griner took the stage at the ceremony in a black suit and white shirt, she received a standing ovation from the audience. “We’re just really so thankful for all the people, many of whom are black women and organizations, who fought so hard to bring BG home tonight,” said Cherelle, dressed in a purple suit.
Griner, who recently re-signed with the Phoenix Mercury, continued, “It feels so good to be here, especially with my beautiful, wonderful wife and with all of you here today. I want to thank everyone and let’s keep fighting to bring home every American who is still being held abroad.”
The 54th on television NAACP Image Awards broadcast live on Sunday after a week of non-televised ceremonies. Find the full list of winners here.