Tributes pour in for Brittney Griner today, as she spends her 32nd birthday behind bars in Russia

BRITTNEY GRINER- Birthday wishes from around the world have flooded in today for WNBA star Brittney Griner.

The American has spent her 32nd birthday behind bars in a Russian prison cell.

It comes as U.S. consular officers complete a phone call with Griner and fellow American detainee, Paul Whelan.

The news of the phone conversation was confirmed during a State Department briefing, and follows months of no contact with the pair.

It comes as the Biden Administration continues to push for their immediate release, attempting to strike a deal with Russia.

However, it remains difficult given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Birthday behind bars

Today, marks 8 months since WNBA star Brittney Griner was detained for bringing cannabis oil into the country. It also marks Griner’s 32nd birthday.

She released a message from behind bars that read “thank you everyone for fighting so hard to get me home. All the support and love are definitely helping me.”

Tributes now flow in for the Basketball star, from around the globe.

Appeal hearing approaches

Griner now awaits her appeal hearing next week, where she will learn her fate.

Many of Griner’s supporters, including the Biden administration, believe she has been “wrongfully detained” and used as a political pawn.

Russia has previously stated that the release of Griner is not a priority for the country.

Speaking exclusively to CNN, Griner’s lawyers said her birthday has been “difficult” because of her looming appeal hearing in a matter of days.

They added Griner is “very much concerned with the outcome of the appeal.”