Since Brittney Griner was first arrested in Russia in February on drug-related charges, many of her friends and admirers have spoken out about her situation and demanded that she be released.
Members of the Russian team she plays for during the off-season have testified in her favor both on and off the court as her trial has progressed over the past month, with U.S.-based advocates increasing public pressure on the Biden administration to bring her home.
In her brief guilty plea, Griner admitted to bringing marijuana into Russia, where it is prohibited for both medical and recreational use. She also emphasized that she had packed her bags in a hurry and had no intention of breaking any laws. If found guilty, she could serve up to 10 years.
The WNBA star and Olympic gold medalist finally testified in court on Wednesday, outlining why she had the vape cartridges in the first place, how they got into her luggage, and what transpired after they were found.