• Loading stock data...
Thursday, September 18, 2025

WNBA Star Brittney Griner Reportedly Pleads Guilty in Russian Court

  • The WNBA star has reportedly pleaded guilty to possessing and bringing marijuana into Russia.
  • The plea is likely part of a diplomatic strategy, per ESPN.
Antranik Tavitian/The Republic

In the second week of her trial, WNBA star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to the charges against her in a Russian court, Reuters reported

In February, Griner was detained in Russia for allegedly carrying marijuana products in her luggage while traveling in the country. Marijuana possession is illegal in Russia, and Griner is facing up to a decade in prison.

Last week, at her trial’s commencement, the court reportedly decided that Griner must remain in detention for another six months. 

Griner’s detention comes at a time when the U.S. and Russia have essentially cut diplomatic ties. She was taken into custody just days before Russia invaded Ukraine, making it a pariah on the world stage.

Despite the strain, the Biden administration says it is working to bring Griner back to the U.S.

The plea itself is likely part of a “strategy” to bring Griner back to the U.S., according to ESPN. The Russian court system was expected to find her guilty. Her release will be contingent upon diplomatic negotiations between the U.S. and Russia.

On Wednesday, President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke with Griner’s wife by phone.

In a statement, the president said Griner was “wrongfully detained in Russia under intolerable circumstances.”

President Biden “is working to secure Brittney’s release as soon as possible,” the statement read.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Business Is Booming for WNBA’s Top Beauty Pros

A network of stylists is shaping how players look, feel, and perform.

Silver: My Comments About Basketball Highlights Were ‘Misconstrued’

The NBA commissioner spoke at the Front Office Sports Tuned in summit.
Apr 24, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Malik Beasley (5) dribbles on New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) in the second half during game three of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena.

Adam Silver: NBA’s Problems With Gambling ‘Have Been Predictable’

Silver originally advocated for legalized sports betting in a 2014 op-ed.

Featured Today

Premier Lacrosse League

‘The Circus Is Coming to Town’: Why Upstart Leagues Start on Tour

In their ambitious plans, a traveling schedule is only temporary.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 19: A detailed view of the MLB Debut patch on the jersey of Patrick Monteverde #44 of the Miami Marlins prior to game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on April 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
September 13, 2025

The Tiny Jersey Patch at the Center of the MLB Rookie Card..

Autographed cards containing a piece of baseball history have upended the market.
September 11, 2025

Eagles-Chiefs Super Bowl Rematch Could Set More NFL Ratings Records

Fox will nationally televise Sunday afternoon’s matchup.
September 10, 2025

ESPN’s ‘MNF’ Ratings Up 8% As NFL Surges to Strong Start

ESPN posts its second-best Week 1 “Monday Night Football” audience.
Kawhi Leonard

A Timeline of the Kawhi Leonard-Clippers-Aspiration Saga

Investigations into the Clippers’ business dealings with Leonard date back years.
September 11, 2025

NHL To Allow Players From Hockey Canada Trial To Return This Winter

The five Canadian players were all acquitted in July.
Joe Burrow
September 15, 2025

Joe Burrow Out for Months After Bengals’ Pricey Offseason

Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase are the highest-paid WR duo in NFL history.
Sponsored

How World Series Champ Dexter Fowler Became a Premier League Team Owner

Dexter Fowler discusses navigating retirement and embracing new roles as an owner & investor.
September 10, 2025

Kuminga, Grimes Remain Unsigned As Giddey Agrees to $100M Deal

Two of the four restricted free agents have inked deals.
September 8, 2025

Alcaraz and Sinner Have More to Gain in 2025 After Splitting Slams

Alcaraz and Sinner have split the last eight Grand Slams.
September 7, 2025

Alcaraz Beats Sinner, Wins $5M Prize, Reclaims World No. 1

Alcaraz won a record $5 million first prize at the US Open.
Angel Reese
September 5, 2025

Angel Reese Suspended For Half-Game After Ripping Teammates

The team is disciplining Reese for criticizing her teammates publicly.