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Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Why did Brittney Griner go to Russia? Reason for WNBA star’s life-changing trip explained

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Ritik Malik | Last updated 2/1/24

WNBA superstar Brittney Griner was in the sporting world’s headlines for the past year and the reason was her life-changing trip to Russia. From the very beginning of her basketball career, BG showcased her world-class athleticism. In just a few years, she rose to the top of the WNBA as one of the best players, earning legendary comparisons for her on-court excellence.

Brittney Griner is not just a WNBA superstar but also a champion, a key member of the WNBA 25th Anniversary Team, and the holder of numerous accolades. Her impressive resume, built over the past decade, is nothing short of godly. It reflects her hard work, well-deserved recognition, and achievements that are nearly impossible to match.

But none of Griner’s on-court greatness mattered during her last controversial trip to Russia which made her viral all over the web as she was arrested with smuggling charges and could have been booked for almost a decade. Many know how the story rolled out for BG but not the reasons and history behind it. Here’s the original chain of incidents that saw her walk through the toughest phase of her life.

Why did Brittney Griner go to Russia?

Brittney Griner, like many athletes, went to Russia to play in the Russian Premier League. Athletes often travel abroad to display their skills, earn income, and stay active during the off-season.

Griner’s decision may also be influenced by the pay scale in the WNBA, which is not as lucrative as the NBA or the offers she receives for playing overseas during the offseason, whether it’s in Russia or China, per NBC.

Additionally, Brittney Griner boasts a successful overseas career, and adding more achievements to her list is always appealing. She has secured three Russian National League titles with UMMC Ekaterinburg, won the EuroLeague four times, and clinched the Russian Cup.

The trip to Russia not only enhances players’ skills on an international level but also prepares them to face top-tier competition in events like the World Cups and the Olympics.

Why was Brittney Griner arrested?

Brittney Griner was arrested on February 17, 2022, while she was traveling to Russia to play. She was arrested at the Sheremetyevo Airport in Moscow by Russian officials and the customs department.

The customs officials checked her luggage after a sniffing dog prompted them to do so. And, unfortunately, she was carrying vape cartridges containing cannabis oil with her.

The discovery of illegal substances led to Griner’s arrest. Despite numerous extensions and legal proceedings, a Russian court sentenced her to 9 years in prison on drug smuggling charges.

Griner pleaded guilty but emphasized that the act was unintentional and a mistake. However, the court showed little leniency, deciding to impose a nearly decade-long sentence.

Why was Brittney Griner detained?

The Biden Administration consistently called out Brittney Griner’s arrest as “wrongful detainment.” In fact, the Russian officials also lived up to those speculations as she was shifted to the Gulag for drug smuggling charges. Griner’s detention was widely regarded as wrongful, with many believing her to be a political prisoner.

Shortly after Brittney’s detainment, Russia invaded Ukraine, thrusting the United States into global discussions. Fortunately, after 294 days of wrongful detention, the Biden Administration successfully brought Griner back to US soil.

However, her release was not without conditions, as Russia opted for a prisoner swap, exchanging Griner for Viktor Bout, also known as the “Merchant of Death.” The WNBA star is now back and rocking the courts with her dazzling displays that has always amazed fans.