A Russian court recently sentenced Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner to nine years in jail. This came after Russian officials detained Griner in a Russian airport earlier this year.

The former Olympic gold medallist was arrested on charges of carrying illegal substances. This started a long legal procedure that ended, following the court announcing a sentence for Griner.

Despite the long prison sentence, Griner and her camp still have some hope. The United States government plans to bring back Griner to the country with a prisoner swap. 

Although the Russians are interested in negotiating with the White House, they have issued a stern message to officials. According to sources, Russia is open to talking about a possible prisoner exchange involving American basketball star Brittney Griner but strongly warned Washington against publicizing the issue.

“If the Americans again try to engage in public diplomacy and make loud statements about their intention to take certain steps, it’s their business, I would even say their problem,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said. 

The President of the United States speaks out for Brittney Griner

Needless to say, Brittney Griner has caused headlines all around the world. She received support from the NBA and WNBA worlds and their stars, who called for her release. Such public pressure urged the government to fast-track their negotiations in order to bring the seven-time All-Star back home. 

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After a Russian court convicted Griner on her charges, the President of the United States of America Joe Biden spoke out. He issued a public statement following Griner’s sentence. 

Biden said in a statement, “Today, American citizen Brittney Griner received a prison sentence that is one more reminder of what the world already knew: Russia is wrongfully detaining Brittney. It’s unacceptable, and I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates.” 

Only time can tell whether Griner will be back in the United States or not. Experts have suggested such a deal could take years to implement due to lengthy discussions necessary between both nations. This comes at a time when relations between the US and Russia are already strained over the war in Ukraine. 

WATCH THIS STORY: Brittney Griner Case: What Have LeBron James, Stephen Curry, And Other NBA Stars Said? 

What are your thoughts on the Brittney Griner situation? Let us know in the comments down below.