Members of the Phoenix Mercury and Connecticut Sun stood arm-in-arm in a circle at halfcourt before Thursday night's WNBA game at Mohegan Sun Arena to observe «a 42-second moment of solidarity» for Mercury center Brittney Griner.
A Russian court sentenced Griner to nine years in prison earlier Thursday after she was found guilty of drug trafficking. She was arrested Feb.
17 for bringing cannabis into the country, where she has long competed during the WNBA's off-season. Many players on both teams wiped away tears during the emotional pregame ceremony, which called for the release of Griner and other Americans being detained in Russia.
As the players locked arms at halfcourt, the Sun's public address announcer said the teams hoped «to recognize the gravity of the moment and collectively send [Griner] strength.» «We're inspired everyday by BG's strength, and we are steadfastly committed to keeping her top of mind publicly until she is safely back on American soil,» the PA announcer said. «We invite all of you here tonight to stand and link arms in solidarity with us.