Released from Detention in Russia
WNBA star Brittney Griner shared her harrowing experience of fearing for her life as she boarded a plane after her release from detention in Russia. Griner, speaking in an interview with Megan Rapinoe, detailed the anxiety she felt even after leaving her prison facility.
Griner’s Ordeal: Griner spent almost 300 days in custody in Russia after cannabis oil was found in her luggage. Russian authorities accused her of smuggling less than one gram of cannabis oil and sentenced her to nine years in prison. However, the US State Department intervened, deeming her detention wrongful, leading to her release in a prisoner swap.
Life After Detention
Since her release, Griner has opened up about the mental challenges and poor conditions she faced in prison. She expressed gratitude for the support she received from people back home, emphasizing how it kept her spirits up during dark times.
Looking Ahead: Griner, now preparing for her 11th WNBA season, is also anticipating the arrival of her first child with partner Cherelle. Excited about the future, Griner hopes that “Baby Bash” will follow in her athletic footsteps, whether in basketball or any other endeavor.