Brittney Griner Opens Up About Detainment in Moscow Airport: “A Mental Lapse Led to Nearly 10 Months Behind Bars”

Brittney Griner, the two-time Olympic gold medallist and WNBA All-Star, opened up about her harrowing experience of being detained in a Moscow airport two years ago for carrying vape cartridges containing hashish oil. In an emotional interview with ABC’s 20/20 program, Griner revealed the mental toll the incident took on her, leading to nearly 10 months behind bars in Russia.

The Phoenix Mercury player, who was arrested in February 2022, expressed her disbelief at the situation, stating, “I could just visualize everything I worked so hard for just crumbling and going away,” upon the discovery of the cartridges in her luggage. Griner emphasized that she did not intend to pack the cartridges, which were legal in Arizona, where she plays professionally.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Griner admitted to feeling immense guilt for letting down her family and team, saying, “It’s my fault and I let everybody down.” Despite her struggles, she is set to release a book detailing her experience later this month, shedding light on the challenges she faced during her time in Russian custody.

The WNBA scoring champion’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of a momentary lapse in judgment. Griner’s resilience and determination to share her story highlight the importance of mental health and staying vigilant in high-pressure situations.

As Griner continues to navigate the aftermath of her ordeal, her courage in speaking out about her experience serves as an inspiration to athletes and individuals alike. Her journey serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care and mindfulness in the face of adversity.