Brittney Griner Returns to Court with Team USA for First Time Since 2021 Tokyo Olympics Win

Griner, recently freed from Russian prison, shines in exhibition game signaling return to Team USA, kicking off preparations for 2024 Paris Olympics.

Following her release from a Russian prison, Brittney Griner has returned to Team USA and played in an exhibition game against the Tennessee Lady Vols. The game marks Griner's first time playing with 'USA' on her jersey since winning her second Olympic gold medal in August 2021 at the Tokyo Games.
Griner received immense support from fans during the game, with many attending specifically to watch her play. This positive reception was notable considering the previously expressed concerns about how she might be received in Tennessee, where the GOP holds a super majority.
In the exhibition game, Griner matched five-time Olympic gold medalist Diana Taurasi with 11 points. During her play, she had three rebounds and three assists in 23 minutes, contributing to Team USA's win over the Lady Vols with a score of 95-59.
The exhibition game was part of Team USA's preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking the start of a training camp in Atlanta and further exhibitions. This is also one of three periods USA Basketball intends to use to prepare and evaluate players before finalizing the roster for the Paris Games.
Griner's passion for representing her country on the basketball court is significant and personal to her. As the daughter of a Vietnam War veteran, she had initially wanted to join the military before finding basketball.