Controversial WNBA star Brittney Griner will be spending nine tough years in one of the harshest prisons in the country, according to reports. Many eminent researchers have talked about what awaits Griner in the dreaded prison.

Several reports have claimed that inhumane working conditions, abusive guards, and hostile inmates are common in the prison. Recently an American professor talked about how the prison is already a terrible place for a Russian citizen. On top of that, Griner’s gender identity and nationality will add to her misery.

Russians struggle in the prison where Brittney Griner is being kept

If reports are true, then the Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner will be spending nine long and hard years of her life in a Russian prison. Notably, she was arrested earlier this year when officials detained her at an airport near Moscow.

They found traces of cannabis oil in her luggage, which led to her arrest and the court sentencing her to nine years in jail. According to reports all around the world, Griner will serve time at the IK-2 Penal Colony located in Mordovia.

READ MORE: “Russia Is Very Aware”: Brittney Griner Forced to Do “Menial” Tasks for Police and Military in Prison, Reveals American Researcher

The penal colony has some of the most dreaded conditions which might haunt the basketball star. Inmates endure long working hours with minimal breaks.

According to an American professor, life in prison is hard for a Russian. On the other hand, Griner is a gay American woman which will make her stay even more difficult. Marina Alexandrova said, “It is already a terrible place for a Russian. “For someone without connections, it’s worse.”

Moreover, the language barrier will also create a lot of problems. Griner’s physicality is another factor that might affect her. She has an incredible 6-foot-9 inches frame and the tiny prison cells will make her uncomfortable.

Talks for Griner are active, says Secretary of State

Brittney Griner’s one last hope remains a prisoner swap deal. According to sources, the talks between the two nations are active and there might be a result soon.

During an interview, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken asserted officials are in talks with Russia over a swap deal. Talks include former Marine Paul Whelan alongside Griner. “We’ve been actively engaged over these many months to try to move things forward,” said Blinken. 

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