By: Ben Sawyers
Phoenix Mercury center, Brittney Griner, was arrested by Russian officials after reportedly finding hashish oil, a cannabis concentrate, in the star’s luggage.
The two-time Olympic gold medalist was flying into Russia to play for UMMC Ekaterinburg in the Russian Women’s Basketball Premier League. Many WNBA players play overseas in the league’s off-season where oftentimes salaries are higher.
Griner, a U.S. citizen, now faces up to 10 years in prison for the “large-scale transportation of drugs,” according to the New York Times. Griner’s arrest comes at a time of international political turmoil with Russia’s continued invasion into Ukraine.
In a statement, the WNBA said Griner has their “full support and [their] main priority is her swift and safe return to the United States.”
The Phoenix Mercury echoed the WNBA’s support of Griner in their own statement:
“We love and support Brittney, and at this time, our main concern is her safety, physical and mental health, and her safe return home.”