Griner could face up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to drug charges in Moscow, Russia.

The American basketball star was caught in February when Russian authorities claimed to have discovered vape canisters that contained cannabis oil among her belongings.

Details Of The Case

According to her lawyer, Alexander Boikov, Griner agreed that the vape canisters were hers. They were found at Sheremetyevo Airport.

However, she claimed that she unintentionally brought them into the country.

Her other lawyer, Maria Blagovolina, said that they were hoping to get leniency.

The basketballer was arrested days before Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin was accused of using her as a political bargaining chip.

Biden's administration insisted that the player was "wrongfully detained." However, Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesman, said that Griner was not being held, hostage.

Griner Is Afraid Of Being There "Forever"

31-year-old Griner wrote a touching letter to Biden, begging him to get her home.

The handwritten letter, which was delivered to the White House, said:

"I'm terrified I might be here forever."

She also talked about their family tradition of celebrating those who fought for freedom on July the Fourth. Griner pointed out that freedom meant something else to her this year due to her predicament.

According to the White House, Biden read the letter and said he was trying to get her released as soon as possible.

"Unimaginable" Situation

Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner, said in April that the player was in an unimaginable situation. Engelbert also said that Griner had their full support.

She also said that they were trying to do everything possible to work with her legal team, her agent, leaders, and the administration to get her out of Russia. They aimed to ensure she got home safely and as quickly as possible.