After months, WNBA fans finally see a glimpse of Brittney Griner in Russia

WNBA star Brittney Griner was seen before appearing in court as an upcoming hearing on alleged drug possession charges in Russia is scheduled for July 1. 

It’s been 130 days since Brittney Griner has been detained in Russia.

The day count bears repeating, as her biggest advocates have reminded the world exactly how long she’s been wrongfully detained in Russia with each passing day.

On Day 130, those campaigning to bring Brittney home got an update of sorts: they were finally able to see Griner’s face after months of silence during her detainment.

Griner remained silent as she was led to the courtroom by four Russian police officers, one of which was leading a dog by the leash. The sight of an alarmed Griner in handcuffs, accompanied by several guards and a police dog, was jarring for concerned WNBA fans.

Phoenix Mercury center Brittney Griner seen in detainment after months

With a court date set for July 1, Griner was ordered to remain in Russian custody during her criminal trial. According to ESPN, Griner could “face 10 years in prison if convicted on charges of large-scale transportation of drugs. Fewer than 1% of defendants in Russian criminal cases are acquitted, and unlike in the U.S., acquittals can be overturned.”

Griner’s detention was extended for an additional 6 months at her preliminary hearing.

ESPN’s T.J. Quinn elaborated on why legal experts expect Griner to be convicted of drug trafficking charges: because she is likely to be used as a political pawn in U.S.-Russia relations.

Officials and experts familiar with Griner’s case told Quinn the following: “Russia has indicated that it is willing to negotiate her release, and the legal proceedings are simply a pretense to put a sheen of legitimacy on the saga.”

“The Russians have to keep pretending that this is a legitimate arrest,”  Dr. Danielle Gilbert, assistant professor of military and strategic studies at the United States Air Force Academy, told ESPN. “There is no reason to believe that the charges are legitimate or that her trial will be fair. But if and when she’s convicted, the Russians will have made clear their credible alternative to a deal to bring her home.”

This is the exact situation Griner’s friends, family and teammates were fearful of upon her initial arrest, which is why they asked media and WNBA fans not to amplify her plight — because Russia might then use Griner’s detention as a political tool to negotiate a prisoner swap.

Now, legendary figures from all across the basketball landscape have been vocally advocating for Griner’s release, especially Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley. Her absence in the WNBA is felt by all, but her Phoenix Mercury teammates are particularly affected with BG gone.

As it stands, many believe Brittney Griner will not return home pardoned from Russia — at least not without something in return.