Brittney Griner's trial ends - Here's what we know about her detention and possible release
Griner is best known for his time with the Baylor Bears and, after college, his time with the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA. Every year since 2014, Griner has competed for European powerhouse UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia. Griner joined the six-time EuroLeague champions immediately after losing in last fall's WNBA Finals to her Phoenix Mercury; the WNBA off-season was no exception.
During their final conversation before Griner's departure, Cherelle recalled how she "didn't want to go back" to the Ural city. Using Google Translate on her cell phone, Griner testified that she was forced to sign documents written in Russian. Her rights were never read to her.
Afterward, Cherelle revealed that she learned Brittney was taken into a room for further questioning via text message. She was eventually taken into custody after officials confiscated her phone. On March 5, the general public learned of Griner's arrest on charges of large-scale drug transportation after Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24.
Eventually, Griner's fans loved ones, and politicians began to speak out. Griner's native Texas congressman, Colin Allred, called the situation "extremely concerning." Despite facing up to 10 years in prison, Griner and her defense lawyers expressed optimism the judge would be lenient.