According to skysports.com, Us Basketball player Brittney Griner has been convicted of drug possession and smuggling in Russia and was sentenced to nine years in prison. Griner is 31 years old and a two time Olympic champion all star with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, she listened with a blank expression as an interpreter translated the verdict from Judge Anna Sotnikova, who also fined her one million rubles. Joe Biden denounced the verdict and sentencing, which comes as tensions are high between Russia and the U.S.. Biden was also quoted in saying, “I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends and team-mates,” As Griner was let out of court she stated, I love my family.” Defense attorney Maria Blagovolina said to reporters that Griner is, “very upset, very stressed. She can hardly talk. It’s a difficult time for her”.
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