WNBA star Brittney Griner arrested in Russia - Jumper Brasil

Author: Vitória Correa

Website: Jumper Brasil

Original: https://jumperbrasil.com.br/estrela-da-wnba-brittney-griner-e-presa-na-russia/

WNBA star Brittney Griner arrested in Russia

Phoenix Mercury center is accused of drug trafficking and faces up to ten years in prison

WNBA star Brittney Griner has been arrested in Russia, according to the New York Times. According to information from the newspaper, the pivot was trying to board a plane when Vape cartridges, which contained hashish oil, were found in her luggage. The case took place at Sheremetyevo airport, near Moscow.

Moscow customs said it had detained a player who won two Olympic gold medals with the United States, but did not disclose her name. The Russian news agency TASS, on the other hand, identified Griner and began to publicize the event in the media.

According to the statement issued by customs, a criminal case has been opened regarding the transport of drugs. Brittney Griner reportedly faces up to ten years in prison in Russia.

In a statement released to the press, the Phoenix Mercury, Griner's team in the WNBA, said: "We are aware of and closely monitoring the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia. We remain in constant contact with his family, his representation, the WNBA and the NBA. We love and support Brittney, and at this time, our primary concern is her safety, physical and mental health, and her safe return home."

The WNBA, on the other hand, stated that Brittney "has the full support of the WNBA and our top priority is her swift and safe return to the United States."

War in Ukraine

Brittney Griner was arrested in Russia amid the War in Ukraine, tension generated after Russia's invasion of neighboring territory. Since February 24, several athletes, including those from the WNBA, who will play in the Russian country because of the more profitable salaries, have tried to flee both there and Ukraine and return to their home countries.

According to information from the New York Times, at the time of writing, there are no WNBA players left in Eastern Europe, apart from Griner.