Seth Udinski, FISM News

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The international saga of Brittney Griner’s arrest and trial in Russia has reached an apparent climax. On Thursday, the WNBA star pleaded guilty to possession of illegal drugs.

Griner now faces up to 10 years in prison for an incident back in February when she was arrested at a Russian airport and charged with carrying cannabis in her suitcase. The timing of the incident could not have been more disastrous for Griner, as it happened only days before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

It seems that Griner’s plea to the White House, as well her wife’s repeated attempts to gain assistance from the Biden administration, have fallen on deaf ears at least for the time being. Many believe Griner is being used as a political pawn in Russia’s contentious relationship with the U.S., and some think she could be involved in a future prisoner exchange.

The president contacted Griner’s wife, Charelle, on Wednesday following her critical remarks made during a CBS interview and said he is doing everything he can to ensure the imprisoned Griner’s release.

Sources indicate that Griner made the decision of her own accord but could have been influenced by the fact that since the vast majority of Russian criminals are convicted, she would still theoretically have hope for a lower sentence with a guilty plea and cooperation.

FISM News will continue to follow this story as more details emerge. Griner’s next date in trial is reportedly set for July 14.