The tension between the United States of America and Russia continues to skyrocket amid the former invasion of Ukraine and now an American WNBA star and Olympic gold medalist, Brittney Griner has been detained in Russia over drug charges.
The WNBA star plays for the Phoenix Mercury in WNBA and Russia UMMC Ekaterinburg during the off-season. She was arrested in February after the Russian Federal Customs Service claimed she was detained after discovering a vape cartridge containing marijuana concentrate hashish in her luggage at the airport.
Is Brittney Griner still in Russia?
Yes, Brittney Griner has been forced to stay in Russia since her arrest in February over drug charges which could have her a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
Some high-profile professional women basketball players have added their voices to the detention of Brittney Griner. In the second week of April 2022, U.S officials met with Brittney Griner and the spokesperson from the U.S Embassy in Moscow indicated that the WNBA player is in good condition but when she would be released remains unclear.
Read also: American Idol: Why did Kenedi Anderson drop out?
What did Brittney Griner do in Russia?
Brittney Griner was detained in February by the Russian Federal Customs Service for having drugs in her luggage at the airport. The country initially announced the news on March 6 that an American basketball player is in their custody and us reportedly opening a criminal case against her.
The wife of Brittney Griner, Cherelle Griner has also released a statement on Instagram to thank fans for their support and prayers. WNBA has also released a statement giving it full support adding that its main priority is the swift and safe return to the United States of America.
How much does Brittney Griner make in Russia?
Well, there have been several complaints about how WNBA players always move overseas during their off-season for additional income and some believe that Brittney Griner’s situation could have been avoided if women were paid fairly in sports.
In the WNBA, Brittney Griner is paid a maximum salary of $227,900 however in Russia the 6 foot 9 basketball player makes a million dollars per season.