Report: WNBA star Brittney Griner's detention in Russia again extended

WNBA star Brittney Griner continues to be held by the Russian government, and her detention has now reportedly been extended again. According to ESPN investigative reporter T.J. Quinn, Russia has now once again extended Griner’s detention.

“Russian media reports that Brittney Griner’s detention has been extended again,” Quinn tweeted.

Quinn went on to further evaluate Griner’s situation, saying that the further detention by Russia was something that was expected. At this point, Russia could very well be holding Griner in custody until a favorable deal can be reached.

“This was completely expected,” Quinn said. “The U.S. doesn’t consider this to be a legitimate legal process, but expects Russia to act as though it is. U.S. officials see it as a negotiation tactic. It’s almost certain that BG’s detention will be extended again and again until a deal is reached to bring her home. As experts have said, it’s theater, not jurisprudence.

“Such moves are also typically done to keep the story in the news and increase pressure against the U.S. government to make a deal that Russia likes.”

Quinn noted that Griner is still being held 117 days after her arrest, and that the United States will continue to negotiate her release until she is able to be brought home.

“This pre-trial detention is officially to give prosecutors time to investigate,” said Quinn. “She was picked up 117 days ago and they need more time to determine whether she had vape cartridges with hashish oil in them?

“At some point BG may well be charged, brought to trial and convicted. As Americans Trevor Reed and Paul Whelan were. Whatever happens, though, U.S. officials and former UN ambassador Bill Richardson will continue to negotiate her release.”

United States says Russia has ‘wrongfully detained’ Griner

Earlier in this process, the United States came out and called out Russia for holding Griner, saying that she is being “wrongfully detained.” Griner was originally detained in February while entering the country, and Russian officials said that she illegally brought vape cartridges containing hashish oil.

“The welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad is among the highest priorities of the U.S government,” the State Department said, per ESPN. “The Department of State has determined that the Russian Federation has wrongfully detained U.S. citizen Brittney Griner.

“… The U.S. government will continue to undertake efforts to provide appropriate support to Ms. Griner.”

Griner was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft after an illustrious collegiate career at Baylor.