The basketball star Brittney Griner, used as a Russian political pawn, in her plea for clemency also apologized to her fans, among many othersBy: Audrey Cole/TRT Reporter–The WNBA player and two-time gold medalist, Brittney Griner, was found guilty by a Russian Court of attempting to smuggle drugs into the country.
Her sentencing comes in the middle of the Ukraine-Russia war and a time in which US relations with Russia are at an all-time low.
President Joe Biden immediately responded to the sentence, demanding Russia release her.“… It’s unacceptable, and I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates,” read part of his statement. “My administration will continue to work tirelessly and pursue every possible avenue to bring Brittney and Paul Whelan home safely as soon as possible.”The court sentenced Griner to 9 1/2 years in a penal colony, according to The New York Times, while Griner wept and asked for clemency while apologizing to her teammates, friends, and family.“My parents taught me two important things.
One, take ownership for your responsibilities; and two, to work hard for everything you have. That’s why I plead guilty to my charges.