Brittney Griner's mugshot (Image: Russian State Tv)
On February 17, 2022, WNBA star Brittney Griner was detained in Moscow because Russian customs found cannabis oil vape cartridges in her luggage.
Griner faced charges of illegally transporting and possessing narcotic substances.
The trial began on July 2, 2022. Griner pleaded guilty to the charges; however, she said that she had no intent to break the law in Russia, and it was medically prescribed to her in Arizona.
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Griner was ultimately sentenced to nine years in a penal colony and fined 1 million rubles, equivalent to approximately $16,300.
On December 8, 2022, the United States negotiated a prisoner swap with Russia, where Griner was released and sent back to the U.S. in exchange for Viktor Bout. Bout was a convicted Russian arms dealer who was held in U.S. custody.
On May 19, 2023, Griner made her return to the WNBA after missing the entire 2022 season.
Griner was selected first overall in the 2013 WNBA draft by the Phoenix Mercury. During her time in Phoenix, Griner was a 10-time All-Star, two-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, and a two-time scoring champion.
Griner and the Mercury also won the 2014 WNBA championship.
After the 2024 season, Griner signed with the Atlanta Dream, as she was looking for a fresh start.
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