Brittney Griner had permission from US health officials to use medicinal cannabis before she was detained in Russia for possession of the drug, a court has heard. The US basketball star appeared in court in Moscow again on Friday as her drug possession trial resumed after she pleaded guilty to the charges.
Griner was pictured smiling as she wore a Nirvana t-shirt and held up picture of team mates. She was later seen being led from her cell on the day of the court hearing by Russian guards.
Griner is one of the most prominent female athletes in the US, a standout for the Phoenix Mercury and a two-time Olympic gold medalist as she represents the WNBA.
With Brittney being so well-known within the sports world, athletes have said their peace on the situation as well. According to Lebron James, he alluded to the fact that if he were Britney Griner – he’s not sure that he would want to come back to America.
As the trial takes place, the defense are stating that Brittney Griner had marijuana on her due to a medical condition. The biggest issue with this is that while the marijuana may be medical to her in America – it is still illegal in Russia. At this point, it seems like the only real way to make any movement with getting Britney Griner home is some kind of prisoner swap that many have put forth to Joe Biden.
As of now, there has not been any major movement in that department and it’s hard to see if there is any movement at all behind the scenes and out of the public eye. In any case, everyone seems to be on the same page – and that is to bring Britney Griner back home as soon as possible and as safely as can be.
