WNBA star Britteny Griner is currently being detained in Russia for having found vaping cartridges by customs officials, per ESPN . Near Moscow, late February is when this initially took place, reported by New York Times. Yet, this has recently just touched the surface in America. The Russian Federal Customs Service alleged they search Griners’ luggage and found the cartridges derived from cannabis. In Russia, this crime can carry a maximum of 10 years in prison. Although there was no mention of Griner specifically. Instead, they addressed the detained person as a player for the U.S. women’s team.
“We are aware of the situation involving Brittney Griner in Russia and are in close communication with her. Her legal team in Russia, her family, her basketball teams, and the WNBA and NBA,” said Lindsay Kagawa Colas, Griner’s agent at Wasserman Group, in a statement to ESPN on Saturday. “Since this is an ongoing legal matter, we are unable to provide further details about her case. However, we can confirm that our main focus is ensuring her well-being, both mentally and physically, as we work on bringing her back home.”
Many may not understand, many WNBA players during the offseason tend to play overseas because of the lack of funds the WNBA provides their superstars with. Although Griner continues to get ridiculed for traveling to Russia, her livelihood literally depends on her abilities.
The State Department issued an advisory for Russia in late January. This advisory warned Americans against traveling to Russia because of “Concerns include possible harassment of U.S. citizens, the embassy’s limited capacity to aid U.S. citizens in Russia, COVID-19 and associated entry restrictions, terrorism, potential harassment by Russian security officials, and inconsistent enforcement of local laws,” stated Voepel in the ESPN report.
Politics playing a big issue even in sports
Many theories suggest that they are holding Griner simply for political gain and bargaining power. As of late, an issuing of a new travel advisory just nine days after Russia decided to invade Ukraine has come out.
“Many airlines are canceling flights to and from Russia, and several countries have closed their airspace to Russian airlines.” If you’re a U.S. citizen, it’s advisable to leave Russia promptly using any remaining commercial travel options.”
This past week many WNBA players in Russia fled the country as the invasion began to become a reality. Other than Griner, all other WNBA players who were competing in Russia or Ukraine have safely returned.
“We are aware of the situation in Russia involving Brittney Griner, one of our members. Our primary focus is BG’s safety and well-being,” stated the WNBA players’ union in a statement to ESPN on Saturday. “The 144 stands united in sending love and support. We will closely monitor the situation and eagerly await her return to the U.S.”
Support Griner’s received from other WNBA players and loved ones
Cherelle Griner expressed gratitude for the “prayers and support” during what she described as “one of the toughest times in my life.”
“I appreciate everyone who contacted me about my wife’s safe return from Russia. Your prayers and support mean a lot.”
Brittney Griner's wife, Cherelle, posts a statement about BG on Instagram. She appreciate everyone reaching out to her. #WNBA #4Thevalley #FreeBrittneyGriner pic.twitter.com/mvxrfk1OcI
— Aya Abdeen (@ayabdeen) March 6, 2022
“We fully support Brittney Griner and our top priority is her safe and prompt return to the United States,” stated the league in a statement to ESPN.
