The whole country is divided when it comes to the situation of WNBA star Brittney Griner. While some believe the nine-year sentence is unwarranted, some believe it was her fault since she carried cannabis oil. She was first arrested in February at an airport. Ever since that many celebrities have been showing their support for her. However, it has not made a difference so far. After multiple hearings, she was given a nine-year sentence. A lot of celebrities felt the sentence was too harsh and showed their outrage.

And many stated she is being used as a political pawn. Griner then appealed her nine-year sentence. Before the appeal hearing, details about the conditions of the prison Griner is in were disclosed. As per reports, she has three cellmates who can speak English. Also, she was allowed out of her cell for one hour a day which she spends by walking.

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A few days back, during the appeal hearing, the Russian court denied her appeal and upheld their initial sentence. This came as a huge blow for Griner and her family and fans. This also means she could be moved to a labor camp where the condition could be much worse.

Charles Barkley about the situation of Brittney Griner

Ever since Griner’s appeal was denied, a lot of stars in the NBA world have spoken about it. Recently, NBA on TNT host Ernie Johnson Jr. discussed this with NBA legend Charles Barkley during the latest episode of The Steam Room podcast. At the start of the show, Barkley talked about her appeal being denied and stated it was an unfortunate situation. He added she is in their thoughts and wished her the best.

Ernie stated she could be sent to a penal colony and when the conditions there might be worse from what he has heard from people that have been in that situation. “I saw the States department spokesman was talking about the fact that they are still talking with the Russian government trying to work something out. She has gone from this all-star player to a political pawn,” he added.

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Former MVP Barkley admitted the situation is bad. Brittney Griner has been one of the best basketball players in the WNBA. She joined the league in 2013 and instantly helped the Phoenix Mercury win the title in 2014. She has made the all-star team eight times so far.

As per multiple reports, a prisoner looks like the only way Griner could be back to the nation.