Griner, a player for the USA women's team, experienced a turbulent and challenging chapter in her life when she was detained in Russia in February 2022. She was accused of drug smuggling for carrying vape cartridges with cannabis oil in her luggage.

The center was then sentenced to nine years in prison. Her detention attracted international media attention, with many voices calling for her release, highlighting the injustice of her imprisonment.

Throughout her detention, the U.S. government and various sports organisations worked tirelessly to secure her release. This effort was rewarded in December 2022 when Griner was freed in a prisoner exchange involving Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. Her return home was a moment of great relief and joy, marking the end of an ordeal that tested her resilience and strength.

Her story is a testament to overcoming adversity and determination. Despite the challenges, she emerged stronger, with her release symbolising more than just a personal victory. Today, after more than a year without crossing the Atlantic again, with the Olympic event on the horizon, the Phoenix Mercury veteran feels "relieved" on Parisian soil.

Now, the 33-year-old Texan player, standing at an impressive 2.07 meters tall, will return to European courts with the aim of adding a third gold medal to her collection.

"I'm fine. Everyone wonders what it will be like for me to be back here after everything I've been through, but I feel good and safe in France, so I'm looking forward to playing," Griner said in interviews before the start of the competition.

Back in the WNBA after her grim stint in Yekaterinburg, the Phoenix Mercury, her lifelong team, did not doubt her physical shape despite the inactivity that led her to suffer during her brief time in prison. This experience has made her vow never to be tempted to play for a European club again.

"Of course, at some point, I will travel here with my family for a vacation, but basketball on this continent is over for me," Griner said when asked about her feelings after crossing the Atlantic.

"I want to spend time with my family, with my little one, and I don't want to miss anything. It was time to close this chapter, but it didn't end the way I wanted," she said sadly, recalling those moments, now smiling as they became just a memory.

And what better way to do it than with the family of the USA basketball team.The seven-time gold medalist team begins its Olympic campaign against Japan in Lille on Sunday, and will also face Belgium and Germany as group C rivals.