via Getty
US WNBA basketball superstar Brittney Griner arrives to a hearing at the Khimki Court, outside Moscow on June 27, 2022. – Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and WNBA champion, was detained at Moscow airport in February on charges of carrying in her luggage vape cartridges with cannabis oil, which could carry a 10-year prison sentence. (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
via Getty
US WNBA basketball superstar Brittney Griner arrives to a hearing at the Khimki Court, outside Moscow on June 27, 2022. – Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and WNBA champion, was detained at Moscow airport in February on charges of carrying in her luggage vape cartridges with cannabis oil, which could carry a 10-year prison sentence. (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
Brittney Griner, one of the biggest superstars in the WNBA, is a major talking point for news debates across the world. The Phoenix Mercury star can face a long time in detention after she was convicted in Russia.
Earlier this year, Russian officials arrested Griner on charges of carrying illegal substances. Subsequently, she underwent a long legal procedure that made headlines across the world.
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Recently, the WNBA star pleaded guilty to all of her charges. However, she asserted that she had no intention of breaking the law. Griner said, “I’d like to plead guilty, your honor. But there was no intent. I didn’t want to break the law.”
Considering the severity of her charges, Griner can face up to 10 years in prison. This has led to pleas from across the country and the world to bring her back home. Stars like LeBron James have given their opinion regarding Griner’s situation.
One of the biggest breakthroughs in her case is a prisoner exchange program. The Government planned to bring Griner back to the country in return for a notorious arms dealer who will be sent to Russia.
However, the Russians have rejected their deal. They propose to swap two prisoners in order to return Griner and a former US Marine, Paul Whelan. According to reports, Moscow is leaning toward rejecting a prisoner swap unless it gets two Russians in return for the two Americans the US wants to be released.
This comes amidst major backlash from media and fans alike, calling the Government to not give in to Griner’s demands and let her serve her time in Russia.
How good was Brittney Griner in the WNBA?
Brittney Griner of the Phoenix Mercury was one of the best players during her time in the WNBA. Standing at an incredible 6-foot-8-inches height, she made a name for herself even before entering the league.
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The Mercury drafted Griner as the number 1 pick during the 2013 WNBA draft. She is a 7-time All-Star, and she averages 17.7 points, 1.8 assists, and 7.6 rebounds.
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What are your thoughts regarding the Brittney Griner situation? Let us know in the comments down below.
