Brittney Griner released from Russia in prisoner swap
Brittney Yevette Griner, a professional player for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), was arrested in February of last year and subsequently held in a Russian prison for several months. Whilst flying in Russia for her off-season practices, Griner was detained at a customs checkpoint by security at an airport in Moscow. She had allegedly been caught possessing vape cartridges in her luggage which contained trace amounts of cannabis. After being found guilty of drug possession charges, Griner was sentenced to jail in a Russian penal colony earlier this year.
Unfortunately, the situation became even worse for the 32-year-old, as after being held for an original ten month detainment, the WNBA all star player was then sentenced to another nine years in prison on the drug possession charges. Eventually, after the 10 month detainment, Griner was able to return back to the United States after a trade was negotiated by the Joe Biden administration for her release. The trade took place on Dec. 8 in the United Arab Emirates where convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout was exchanged for the basketball player.
Viktor Bout was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison back in April of 2012 after allegedly smuggling weapons to Colombian rebels. These weapons are believed to be used to injure and kill Americans. Throughout his trial and sentence, Bout maintained his innocence with the Russian government, demanding his release ever since he was put in jail.
The basketball world welcomed her return to the United States after a tweet was sent out by President Joseph Biden confirming her safety and return. Family and former coaches, such as her college basketball coach at Baylor University, shared in the celebration praying for a swift recovery from the traumatizing experience for Griner, her wife, as well as her family.
On Dec. 16th, Griner stated in a media release to the press that she intends to rejoin the WNBA after her leave of absence and play in the 2023 basketball season. The team eagerly awaits her return to the league as Griner is a pivotal part to the defensive powerhouse.
