“In an unimaginable situation”: Liga helps US star imprisoned in Russia

“In an unimaginable situation”
League helps US star jailed in Russia

Brittney Griner has been stuck in Russia since February 17. The US basketball player will almost certainly miss the start of the WNBA season – but the league is trying to help the superstar. WNBA boss Cathy Engelbert openly addresses the issue in the draft.

The WNBA has reiterated its support for basketball player Brittney Griner, who is being held in a prison in Russia. “Please know that getting you home safely is still our top priority and there is a strength in this community, especially in the WNBA, as we face an extraordinarily complex challenge,” said WNBA President Cathy Engelbert in her opening remarks at the New York Best Upcoming Draft: “She’s in an unimaginable situation.”

Griner, who only failed in the final with the Phoenix Mercury last season and is one of the best and most well-known players in the professional league, has been stuck in Russia since mid-February. Authorities say vape cartridges containing hash oil were found during a luggage search at the airport on February 17. Griner faces up to ten years in prison if convicted of drug possession. Russian media recently reported that the arrest had been extended until at least May 19. The new season of the WNBA begins on May 6th.

“We try everything”

Engelbert emphasized that the league is doing everything it can for Griner. “She continues to have our full support,” she said. “We’re trying everything we can, every approach, we’re working with their legal representatives, with elected leaders, with the government. Everyone in our system is trying to find a way to get them home as quickly and safely as possible. ”

ESPN reported that Phoenix wants to pay Griner the full salary of $227,900 despite his absence. Meanwhile, the league is considering making an exception for the Mercury with a view to the salary cap. It is conceivable, for example, that Griner’s salary will be exempt from this salary cap.

US national player Griner has been playing for the UMMC Yekaterinburg team in the Urals during the WNBA season break since 2015. Griner won the Euroleague four times with the top Russian club. Engelbert also emphasized that the 2.05 meter center was in contact with her lawyers: “We know that she is safe, but we want to bring her home.”

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