Phoenix Mercury, Connecticut Sun observe 42 seconds of silence for Brittney Griner

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. Bringing Brittney and all other detainees home is the sole objective. We are and will remain focused and unified in bringing them home safely.»

Griner is missing her first WNBA season this year since being drafted by Phoenix with the No. 1 pick in 2013.

On Thursday morning, Mercury players were getting ready for their shootaround in Uncasville, Connecticut, when Griner's verdict was announced. They were watching on their cellphones, Phoenix coach Vanessa Nygaard said.

«None of our tough days are as tough as any of the BG's days, right?» Nygaard said before the game. «So we always keep that in mind, and we've carried this with us for the season every day. But