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Britney Greiner’s Russian legal team said Thursday that the WNBA superstar “decided to take full responsibility for her actions” when she pleaded guilty to drug charges in a Moscow court and hoped the sentence would not be harsh.
Griner was arrested in February for allegedly transporting vape cartridges containing cannabis-derived oils through a Moscow airport.
She has been held in prison ever since. Griner faces a 10-year sentence.
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Phoenix Mercury center Brittney Griner shoots during the first half of Game 1 of the WNBA Finals against the Chicago Sky on Oct. 10, 2021, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso, file)
“Today BG pleaded guilty. This was her decision made after discussion with her legal defense team in Russia,” her legal team said. “Britney sets an example of courage. She decided to take full responsibility for her actions as she knows she is a role model for many people.
“Given the nature of her case, the minor amount of BG’s content and personality, and history of positive contributions to world and Russian sport, the defense hopes that the charge will be viewed by the court as mitigating and will not result in a harsh sentence.” “
Greener’s agent, Lindsey Kagawa Colas, also praised the WNBA superstar’s bravery.
“Brittney Griner was a model of courage today,” said Kagawa Colas. “BG’s service as an Olympian and global sports ambassador, caring for those most in need, has always distinguished her; but BG is also a human being whose family is missing. She deserves our compassion, understanding, love and support.
WNBA star and two-time Olympic gold medalist Brittney Greiner is escorted to a courtroom for a hearing in Khimki, outside Moscow, Thursday, July 7, 2022. (AP Photo/Alexander Zemlyanchenko)
“We are so grateful to @POTUS and @VP for the time they spent with Cherelle reaffirming their commitment to bring BG and all Americans home and hope that out of respect for the sanctity of sports internationally, BG can return home as soon as possible. “
BRITNEY GREENER PLEAS GUILTY TO OTHER DRUG CHARGES IN RUSSIA
The Women’s National Basketball Association also expressed support for the Phoenix Mercury center.
“The WNBPA supports Brittney Greener. With a 99% conviction rate, Russia’s trial is its own. You can’t navigate it or even understand it like our own legal system,” said WNBPA Executive Director Terry Jackson. “What we do know is that the US State Department has determined that Brittney Greener was wrongfully detained for a reason, and we’ll leave it at that.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert added, “Brittney Greener remains wrongfully detained in Russia, and nothing that happened today changes that 140 days later. The WNBA continues to work diligently with the US State Department, the White House and other allies inside and outside of government to bring Britney home safely and as soon as possible.
“She has the sincere and unconditional support of the entire WNBA and NBA family, who look forward to her safe return, and the league will recognize BG as an honorary pallbearer at this weekend’s WNBA All-Star Game.”
WNBA basketball superstar Brittney Greener arrives for a court hearing in Khimki outside Moscow on July 7, 2022 (Kyril Kudryavtsev/AFP via Getty Images)
Griner’s guilty plea comes just one day after the Russian Foreign Ministry said during a news briefing that the WNBA star would have the opportunity to appeal her sentence or apply for clemency. The State Department also disputed US claims that she was wrongfully detained on February 17.
The White House confirmed Wednesday that President Biden has spoken with Greener’s wife and is actively “working to secure Britney’s release as soon as possible, as well as the release of Paul Whelan and other US citizens who are wrongfully detained or held hostage.” in Russia and around the world.”
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Griner’s legal team said they expect the trial to conclude around the beginning of August.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Ryan Gaydos is a sports editor for Fox News and Fox Business. Story tips can be sent to Ryan.Gaydos@fox.com.
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