New York (AP) – The WNBA has emphasized its support for basketball player Brittney Griner, who is in prison in Russia.
“Please know that getting you home safely is still our top priority and there is a strength in this community, especially in the WNBA, as we face an extraordinarily complex challenge,” said WNBA President Cathy Engelbert on the sidelines of the draft in New York.
Griner, who only failed in the final with the Phoenix Mercury last season and is one of the best and most well-known players in the women’s professional league, has been stuck in Russia since mid-February. Authorities say a luggage search at the airport found vape cartridges containing hash oil. Griner faces up to ten years in prison if convicted of drug possession.
Engelbert emphasized that the league is doing everything it can for Griner. “She continues to have our full support,” she said. “We’re trying everything we can, every approach, we’re working with their legal representatives, with elected leaders, with the government. Everyone in our system is trying to find a way to get them home as quickly and safely as possible.”
US national player Griner has been playing for the UMMC Yekaterinburg team in the Urals during the WNBA season break since 2015. Griner won the Euroleague four times with the top Russian club.