WNBA star Brittney Griner shares a candid reflection on the traumatic day she was arrested at a Russian airport for carrying cannabis oil, in a detailed interview with Robin Roberts of Good Morning America. The interview, which aired on May 1, 2024, on 20/20, captures Griner’s horror as she discovered the forgotten cartridge in her bag—a mistake that would lead to her 10-month detainment in Russia.
Griner’s Shocking Realization and Emotional Turmoil
During her conversation with Roberts, Griner recalls the confusion and panic of that day, emphasizing the sudden realization of her error when she found the cannabis oil cartridge. “I knew that [cannabis] is legal in Arizona,” Griner explains in the interview, “but in Russia, it’s forbidden. I just totally forgot that the pen was in my bag.” This oversight, she describes, made her feel as though everything she had worked for was “crumbling and going away.”
Legal and Personal Repercussions
Griner’s arrest not only sparked international headlines but also a significant debate over the legality and ethics of her actions. Facing harsh criticism and navigating through a challenging legal battle in a foreign country, Griner discusses the “mental lapse” that led to her detainment, comparing it to everyday forgetfulness that anyone could experience.
Continued Impact and Reflection
Despite her release in December 2022 following a high-profile prisoner swap, Griner admits to still grappling with the guilt and repercussions of her actions. Her forthcoming memoir, Coming Home, set to release on May 7, promises to offer an in-depth look at her ordeal, including the stark conditions of her detainment and the global support from the #WeAreBG movement.
This interview and her memoir aim to provide insights into the personal and psychological toll of her detainment, offering a raw, emotional narrative of her journey and the profound impact it has had on her life and career. Griner’s story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of international law and the personal consequences of a momentary oversight.
