In February 2022, American basketball player Brittney Griner was detained by Russian authorities at Sheremetyevo International Airport near Moscow. She was accused of smuggling vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage, which is illegal in Russia. Griner, who plays for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA, had been in Russia playing for UMMC Ekaterinburg during the WNBA off-season to supplement her income.
Playing Overseas for Higher Salaries
Many WNBA players, including Griner, choose to play overseas during the off-season to earn higher salaries. As of 2020, the average income of a WNBA player was less than $130,000, with salaries maxing out around $500,000. In contrast, foreign leagues like UMMC Ekaterinburg offered players significantly higher salaries. In 2015, Diana Taurasi, Griner’s former teammate, was reportedly earning $1.5 million per season playing for the same Russian team.
Escaping Legal Troubles and American Spotlight
Griner’s decision to play in Russia also provided her with an opportunity to step out of the American spotlight. At the time of her signing with UMMC Ekaterinburg, both Griner and her former wife, Glory Johnson, had been arrested on domestic violence charges. Playing in Russia allowed them to escape the media attention surrounding their legal troubles.
Concerns Over Russian Media Attention
UMMC Ekaterinburg, the Russian team Griner played for, is owned by Uzbek-born businessman Iskander Makhmudov. Makhmudov has been named as one of the oligarchs with ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. This raised concerns about the team’s association with the Russian government and its potential impact on American players, especially in light of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Detainment and Release
Griner’s detainment in Russia lasted for several months, during which she faced the possibility of up to 10 years in a Russian prison. However, she was eventually released in a prisoner exchange for a Russian arms dealer. Griner expressed gratitude for the support she received during her detainment and called for continued efforts to bring home other Americans wrongfully detained overseas.
Impact on WNBA and American Organizations
The WNBA, the Phoenix Mercury, and other American organizations have been actively involved in advocating for Griner’s release and supporting her during her detainment. The experience has shed light on the challenges faced by American athletes playing overseas and the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being.
Continued Advocacy for Detainees
In response to Griner’s detainment, the Phoenix Mercury announced plans to raise awareness about the plight of detainees throughout the upcoming WNBA season. They will unveil a mural featuring Griner’s face and the faces of other detained individuals at their home arena. The team also intends to organize a letter-writing campaign to support detainees and their families.
Conclusion
Brittney Griner’s detainment in Russia highlighted the risks and challenges faced by WNBA players who choose to play overseas for higher salaries. It also brought attention to the importance of advocating for the safety and well-being of American athletes abroad. Griner’s release and the ongoing efforts to support detainees serve as a reminder of the need to continue fighting for the rights and freedom of individuals wrongfully detained overseas.