"I started thinking, 'what if that was me, or my mother or cousin?' I'd want to know someone was rooting for my return"
Russian court on Aug. 4 convicted WNBA star of drug smuggling.
Call took place after public acknowledgment of deal to secure U.S. citizens release
Blinken's statement marked the first public acknowledgment that the American government had taken action to secure the release of Griner
The shoe drive was originally an initiative by Griner to help those in need in the Phoenix metropolitan area
"I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don't forget about me and the other American Detainees," Griner said in her letter Monday
The U.S. government “is actively engaged in trying to resolve this case and get Brittney home,” the White House said
Detained WNBA star's trial to begin on July 1
WNBA star detained in Moscow airport in February
HRC, GLAAD among letter signatories