2 Olympic Gold Medals and WNBA Fame Might Help Brittney Griner Escape 59 Other Americans’ Dreadful Fate

The controversial arrest of WNBA star Brittney Griner has wreaked havoc across the basketball world and beyond. She was detained by Russian officials in February after they found vape cartridges containing illegal drugs in her luggage. Subsequently, this led to a long legal procedure which resulted in the court sentencing Griner to nine years in prison.

Thanks to her exploits in the WNBA and her two Gold Medals for the United States of America, Griner quite possibly is the most famous American prisoner detained overseas.

According to a report by Washington Post, “That Whelan’s imprisonment is now being recalled as a result of Griner’s predicament — and that Griner is the most famous of maybe 60 Americans detained or imprisoned under questionable circumstances overseas — is a perverted reminder of the magnetism of sports.”

Former Marine Paul Whelan is a name often associated with Griner. Ever since her sentencing in Russia, officials are negotiating a prisoner swap deal.

According to the terms of the deal, notorious arms dealer Viktor Bout would be sent back to Russia. On the other hand, Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan would return back to the United States of America. However, considering the complexity of the situation, negotiations have been very slow.

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After Griner’s recent appeal got rejected, the prisoner swap deal remains her last hope. In case negotiations fail, she would have to serve nine years in jail for carrying illegal drugs into Russia.

Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner has had a glittering career in the WNBA

Brittney Griner was a star even before she made her debut in the WNBA. Playing for the Baylor Bears, she was one of the hottest prospects entering the 2013 WNBA draft.

Unsurprisingly, she was drafted as the #1 overall pick by the Phoenix Mercury. Ever since her much anticipated debut in the league, Griner has been one of the best players.

In 9 seasons, she has been selected as an All-Star on 7 occasions. Moreover, she has a phenomenal average of 17.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.8 assists.

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