Griner plays for first time since release by Russia

American Brittney Griner played for the first time since leaving prison in Russia in a pre-season match for Phoenix Mercury.

Griner, 32, spent 10 months in Russian custody for possessing cannabis oil before being released in a high-profile prisoner exchange in December.

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She was roared onto the court and played for 17 minutes, scoring with a two-point shot in the first minute.

She has since campaigned for other American prisoners to be released and vowed to return for the Mercury this season.

They begin their regular season on the road in Los Angeles against the Sparks on 19 May.