Defending champions USA beat China 83-61 to win a record-extending 11th Women's World Cup title in Sydney on Saturday, while Australia's Lauren Jackson brought the curtain down on her glittering career with a bronze medal. A'ja Wilson, who plays for the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces, led tournament favourites Team USA with 19 points and was named MVP of the tournament.

The United States earned a hard-fought early lead of 18-13 at the end of the first quarter and were made to work by China as they extended it to 43-33 at the halfway mark. The game looked poised for a close finish at the break, but China faded quickly in the third quarter, going 21 points behind as Jewell Loyd and Kelsey Plum scored a combined 15 points.

The United States weathered a late surge from China in the final quarter to secure their fourth straight World Cup title in front of close to 16,000 fans at the Sydney Superdome. Li Yueru led the scoring for China with 19 points, as they earned their second World Cup silver medal in women's basketball.

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JACKSON BOWS OUT WITH BRONZE

Earlier on Saturday, Jackson capped off her career in spectacular fashion, leading the scoring with 30 points as hosts Australia posted a 95-65 victory over Canada to take bronze. The 41-year-old, who announced her retirement on social media before the match, also equalled the record for most appearances at the Women's World Cup with her 43rd game in the competition. "They're the best group of the girls, I've had the best time, and it's the best journey I've had in the sport," said Jackson, who returned to the Australia squad in August following a lengthy absence after first retiring in 2016.

Kia Nurse scored 19 points to keep Canada within touching distance of Australia for the first half of the game, but Jackson's 12-point rampage in the third quarter gave the hosts a 17-point lead heading into the final 10 minutes. Jackson was then substituted off to a standing ovation with 2:22 remaining, as Australia closed out the win.

Defending champions USA beat China 83-61 to win a record-extending 11th Women's World Cup title in Sydney on Saturday, while Australia's Lauren Jackson brought the curtain down on her glittering career with a bronze medal.

Defending champions USA beat China 83-61 to win a record-extending 11th Women's World Cup title in Sydney on Saturday, while Australia's Lauren Jackson brought the curtain down on her glittering career with a bronze medal. A'ja Wilson, who plays for the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces, led tournament favourites Team USA with 19 points and was named MVP of the tournament. The United States earned a hard-fought early lead of 18-13 at the end of the first quarter and were made to work by China as they extended it to 43-33 at the halfway mark. The game looked poised for a close finish at the break, but China faded quickly in the third quarter, going 21 points behind as Jewell Loyd and Kelsey Plum scored a combined 15 points. The United States weathered a late surge from China in the final quarter to secure their fourth straight World Cup title in front of close to 16,000 fans at the Sydney Superdome. Li Yueru led the scoring for China with 19 points, as they earned their second World Cup silver medal in women's basketball. ALSO READ | USA thrash Canada to qualify for women's basketball World Cup final JACKSON BOWS OUT WITH BRONZE Earlier on Saturday, Jackson capped off her career in spectacular fashion, leading the scoring with 30 points as hosts Australia posted a 95-65 victory over Canada to take bronze. The 41-year-old, who announced her retirement on social media before the match, also equalled the record for most appearances at the Women's World Cup with her 43rd game in the competition. "They're the best group of the girls, I've had the best time, and it's the best journey I've had in the sport," said Jackson, who returned to the Australia squad in August following a lengthy absence after first retiring in 2016. Kia Nurse scored 19 points to keep Canada within touching distance of Australia for the first half of the game, but Jackson's 12-point rampage in the third quarter gave the hosts a 17-point lead heading into the final 10 minutes. Jackson was then substituted off to a standing ovation with 2:22 remaining, as Australia closed out the win.

USA clinch record-extending 11th Women's World Cup title, beat China 83-61

Seattle forward Breanna Stewart drilled a game-high 17 points and grabbed eight rebounds as clinical reigning champions the United States crushed Canada 83-43 to sweep into the women's basketball World Cup final on Friday.

They opened with 15 unanswered points and never relented, extending their amazing World Cup win streak to 29 games to set up a gold-medal showdown in Sydney against Australia or China, who play later. Ever-dangerous Las Vegas Aces' star A'ja Wilson added 15 points and 12 rebounds for the US as they zero in on a fourth straight title and 11th overall. Laeticia Amihere scored eight points to lead a deflated Canada.

The USA were always overwhelming favourites in their 10th consecutive World Cup semi-final, having never failed to reach the last four since the knockout stage was introduced in 1986. In contrast, world number four Canada had got this far just once before, in 1986, when they also crashed to the USA.

The Americans' depth, defense and scoring talent was on full display once again. They have killed it inside all tournament, sinking 55 points a game in the paint ahead of the semi-final, while punishing errors.

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It was a similar scenario against Canada, who have taken big strides under coach Victor Lapena but struggled against the speed of their opponents. The USA's 15 straight points at the start gave them an immediate stranglehold and Canada never recovered, needing five minutes to get off the mark.

While the US shot 79 percent, Canada could only manage 11 percent as they fell 27-7 behind after the first quarter. The margin only grew in the second frame to 45-21, with Stewart at the forefront. They put on another 22 points in the third quarter to build a huge 38-point buffer going into the final stretch before cruising home for an emphatic win.

Seattle forward Breanna Stewart drilled a game-high 17 points and grabbed eight rebounds as clinical reigning champions the United States crushed Canada 83-43 to sweep into the women's basketball World Cup final on Friday.

Seattle forward Breanna Stewart drilled a game-high 17 points and grabbed eight rebounds as clinical reigning champions the United States crushed Canada 83-43 to sweep into the women's basketball World Cup final on Friday. They opened with 15 unanswered points and never relented, extending their amazing World Cup win streak to 29 games to set up a gold-medal showdown in Sydney against Australia or China, who play later. Ever-dangerous Las Vegas Aces' star A'ja Wilson added 15 points and 12 rebounds for the US as they zero in on a fourth straight title and 11th overall. Laeticia Amihere scored eight points to lead a deflated Canada. The USA were always overwhelming favourites in their 10th consecutive World Cup semi-final, having never failed to reach the last four since the knockout stage was introduced in 1986. In contrast, world number four Canada had got this far just once before, in 1986, when they also crashed to the USA. The Americans' depth, defense and scoring talent was on full display once again. They have killed it inside all tournament, sinking 55 points a game in the paint ahead of the semi-final, while punishing errors. ALSO READ | 'Colour of mourning': Denmark's World Cup 'protest' kit is a statement against Qatar's human rights record It was a similar scenario against Canada, who have taken big strides under coach Victor Lapena but struggled against the speed of their opponents. The USA's 15 straight points at the start gave them an immediate stranglehold and Canada never recovered, needing five minutes to get off the mark. While the US shot 79 percent, Canada could only manage 11 percent as they fell 27-7 behind after the first quarter. The margin only grew in the second frame to 45-21, with Stewart at the forefront. They put on another 22 points in the third quarter to build a huge 38-point buffer going into the final stretch before cruising home for an emphatic win.

USA thrash Canada to qualify for women's basketball World Cup final

Puerto Rico booked the last quarter-final slot at the women's basketball World Cup on Tuesday with a "fairytale" 92-73 win over South Korea, securing a knockout place for the first time. Mya Hollingshed drilled a game-high 29 points and 12 rebounds in the do-or-die clash on the final day of group matches at the 10-day tournament in Sydney.

Defeat consigned the Koreans to an early exit as 17th-ranked Puerto Rico progressed with two wins from five in Group A, quickly taking the initiative to open an 18-point lead after the first quarter. The Koreans, missing injured marquee star Park Ji-su, battled back in much tighter second and third quarters and came out on top in the fourth, but their slow start was fatal.

"Obviously very proud of our team, we have a mix of young players with veteran players," said Puerto Rico coach Jerry Batista. "So for us who have been here for a couple of years working and trying to develop Puerto Rico basketball, it is so great. "It is like a fairytale... it shows that if you work, you can achieve everything," he added.

Arella Guirantes has been a standout with her exceptional performances helping steer Puerto Rico to the play-offs in only their second World Cup, having failed to win a game at their first tournament in 2018. The ever-dangerous shooting guard finished with 18 points, five rebounds and five assists. South Korean coach Jung Sun-min said her players were tired after a gruelling tournament, but was gracious in defeat. "The better team deserved the win today," she said.

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Puerto Rico join 10-time champions the United States, hosts Australia, China, Belgium, Canada, France and Serbia in the last eight, which tips off on Thursday. Who faces who will be determined after the last group games. The USA have already clinched top spot in Group A and will face the third- or fourth-placed team from Group B. Whoever wins between China and Belgium will advance as Pool A's second seed.&nbsp;

France, Canada and Australia all have an opportunity to win Group B or finish second to avoid the mighty Americans, depending on how they fare in their final clashes. The French face Serbia and Canada take on a winless Mali, who are in disarray after two of their players were caught on camera fighting each other in a media zone after their loss on Monday.

Footage showed&nbsp;Salimatou Kourouma throwing at least three punches at a teammate as other Mali players rushed to intervene, with governing body FIBA opening a disciplinary investigation. Australia have shaken off a rocky start against France to win three in a row and meet a Japanese team that has been a shadow of the one that took silver at their home Olympics in Tokyo.

Puerto Rico booked the last quarter-final slot at the women's basketball World Cup on Tuesday with a "fairytale" 92-73 win over South Korea, securing a knockout place for the first time.

Puerto Rico booked the last quarter-final slot at the women's basketball World Cup on Tuesday with a "fairytale" 92-73 win over South Korea, securing a knockout place for the first time. Mya Hollingshed drilled a game-high 29 points and 12 rebounds in the do-or-die clash on the final day of group matches at the 10-day tournament in Sydney. Defeat consigned the Koreans to an early exit as 17th-ranked Puerto Rico progressed with two wins from five in Group A, quickly taking the initiative to open an 18-point lead after the first quarter. The Koreans, missing injured marquee star Park Ji-su, battled back in much tighter second and third quarters and came out on top in the fourth, but their slow start was fatal. "Obviously very proud of our team, we have a mix of young players with veteran players," said Puerto Rico coach Jerry Batista. "So for us who have been here for a couple of years working and trying to develop Puerto Rico basketball, it is so great. "It is like a fairytale... it shows that if you work, you can achieve everything," he added. Arella Guirantes has been a standout with her exceptional performances helping steer Puerto Rico to the play-offs in only their second World Cup, having failed to win a game at their first tournament in 2018. The ever-dangerous shooting guard finished with 18 points, five rebounds and five assists. South Korean coach Jung Sun-min said her players were tired after a gruelling tournament, but was gracious in defeat. "The better team deserved the win today," she said. ALSO READ | USA set basketball World Cup record after crushing South Korea 145-69 Puerto Rico join 10-time champions the United States, hosts Australia, China, Belgium, Canada, France and Serbia in the last eight, which tips off on Thursday. Who faces who will be determined after the last group games. The USA have already clinched top spot in Group A and will face the third- or fourth-placed team from Group B. Whoever wins between China and Belgium will advance as Pool A's second seed. France, Canada and Australia all have an opportunity to win Group B or finish second to avoid the mighty Americans, depending on how they fare in their final clashes. The French face Serbia and Canada take on a winless Mali, who are in disarray after two of their players were caught on camera fighting each other in a media zone after their loss on Monday. Footage showed Salimatou Kourouma throwing at least three punches at a teammate as other Mali players rushed to intervene, with governing body FIBA opening a disciplinary investigation. Australia have shaken off a rocky start against France to win three in a row and meet a Japanese team that has been a shadow of the one that took silver at their home Olympics in Tokyo.

Puerto Rico make women's World Cup basketball quarters for first time with win over South Korea

A rampant&nbsp;United States&nbsp;set&nbsp;a new all-time women's&nbsp;basketball&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;scoring&nbsp;record&nbsp;Monday with a 145-69 demolition of South Korea, while Belgium booked their place in the quarter-finals. Eight of the Americans' 12-strong roster hit doubles figures, led by Brionna Jones with 24 points, eight rebounds and one assist in Sydney. A'ja Wilson drilled 20 points and Breanna Stewart 18 as the three-time defending champions ran riot, with Shakira Austin netting a field goal with just seconds left to ensure the&nbsp;record.

It was previously held by Brazil, who crushed Malaysia 143-50 in a group game at the 1990 tournament. "I thought we got off to a bit of a slower start than we wanted, but we had a group that came in that really changed things for us," said&nbsp;USA&nbsp;coach Cheryl Reeve, whose team are gunning for an 11th title overall. "We got more pressure and I think our size, the number of points we got in the paint was 90 or something. So our size was a problem for them and I thought we shared the ball well."

The&nbsp;United States, who had already qualified for the quarter-finals, were on another level both offensively and defensively, passing 30 or more points in all four frames against a Korean team that has struggled without marquee star Park Ji-su. Defeat left the Asian side facing a crunch Group A game on Tuesday against Puerto Rico with a quarter-final slot at stake. "I try to focus on how we played rather than the result of the game. I wanted our players to show their best ability and confidence on the court," said Korean coach Jung Sun-min. "Individually I think we played very hard and very well today."

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Point guard Hind Ben Abdelkader poured in 18 points for Belgium as they ended Bosnia and Herzegovina's tournament dreams. Aiming to better their fourth place in 2018, they swept home 85-55 to join the&nbsp;United States&nbsp;in the last eight from Group A. Kyara Linskens and Julie Vanloo both chipped in with 13 points for their third straight win of the 10-day competition after an opening day loss to Reeve's&nbsp;United States.

Defeat ended any hope the Bosnians had in a hugely disappointing debut tournament, where they leaked 364 points over four consecutive defeats with Belgium successfully blunting the threat posed by dangerwoman Jonquel Jones. "We played a very good defence on Jones and as a team we were very focused," said Belgium coach Valery Demory.

The top four teams from each of the two groups progress to the quarter-finals with China also qualifying from Pool A if they beat Puerto Rico later. Serbia kept their hopes alive in a tough Group B, beating Mali 81-68. Canada are already through and face hosts Australia later, who can also qualify if they win. France will join them if they overcome Japan, whose ball movement and relentless defence that defined their run to the Tokyo Olympics final last year have so far been largely absent.

A rampant United States set a new all-time women's basketball World Cup scoring record Monday with a 145-69 demolition of South Korea, while Belgium booked their place in the quarter-finals.

A rampant United States set a new all-time women's basketball World Cup scoring record Monday with a 145-69 demolition of South Korea, while Belgium booked their place in the quarter-finals. Eight of the Americans' 12-strong roster hit doubles figures, led by Brionna Jones with 24 points, eight rebounds and one assist in Sydney. A'ja Wilson drilled 20 points and Breanna Stewart 18 as the three-time defending champions ran riot, with Shakira Austin netting a field goal with just seconds left to ensure the record. It was previously held by Brazil, who crushed Malaysia 143-50 in a group game at the 1990 tournament. "I thought we got off to a bit of a slower start than we wanted, but we had a group that came in that really changed things for us," said USA coach Cheryl Reeve, whose team are gunning for an 11th title overall. "We got more pressure and I think our size, the number of points we got in the paint was 90 or something. So our size was a problem for them and I thought we shared the ball well." The United States, who had already qualified for the quarter-finals, were on another level both offensively and defensively, passing 30 or more points in all four frames against a Korean team that has struggled without marquee star Park Ji-su. Defeat left the Asian side facing a crunch Group A game on Tuesday against Puerto Rico with a quarter-final slot at stake. "I try to focus on how we played rather than the result of the game. I wanted our players to show their best ability and confidence on the court," said Korean coach Jung Sun-min. "Individually I think we played very hard and very well today." ALSO READ | United States secures ninth successive Presidents Cup Point guard Hind Ben Abdelkader poured in 18 points for Belgium as they ended Bosnia and Herzegovina's tournament dreams. Aiming to better their fourth place in 2018, they swept home 85-55 to join the United States in the last eight from Group A. Kyara Linskens and Julie Vanloo both chipped in with 13 points for their third straight win of the 10-day competition after an opening day loss to Reeve's United States. Defeat ended any hope the Bosnians had in a hugely disappointing debut tournament, where they leaked 364 points over four consecutive defeats with Belgium successfully blunting the threat posed by dangerwoman Jonquel Jones. "We played a very good defence on Jones and as a team we were very focused," said Belgium coach Valery Demory. The top four teams from each of the two groups progress to the quarter-finals with China also qualifying from Pool A if they beat Puerto Rico later. Serbia kept their hopes alive in a tough Group B, beating Mali 81-68. Canada are already through and face hosts Australia later, who can also qualify if they win. France will join them if they overcome Japan, whose ball movement and relentless defence that defined their run to the Tokyo Olympics final last year have so far been largely absent.

USA set basketball World Cup record after crushing South Korea 145-69

The Boston Celtics suspended head coach Ime&nbsp;Udoka&nbsp;for the entire 2022-23 NBA season on Thursday for "violations of team policies." "A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date," the team said in a statement. "The suspension takes effect immediately."

The Celtics did not specify what&nbsp;Udoka's policy violations were. ESPN and The Athletic reported that the 45-year-old Nigerian-American had a consensual relationship with a female member of the Celtics staff that broke the franchise's code of conduct.

The punishment, among the harshest ever issued to an NBA head coach, comes with the Celtics' pre-season training camp due to open next week. In a statement obtained by ESPN,&nbsp;Udoka&nbsp;said he accepted the Celtics' decision. "I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down,"&nbsp;Udoka&nbsp;said. "I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team's decision.

"Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment." Assistant coach Joe Mazzulla will step in as interim coach for the 2022-23 campaign, ESPN reported.&nbsp;Udoka's top assistant last season, Will Hardy, departed in June to become coach of the Utah Jazz. Udoka&nbsp;replaced Brad Stevens as coach last season after Stevens was promoted to president of basketball operations following the departure of Danny Ainge. Udoka&nbsp;played seven seasons in the NBA, the last four with San Antonio before his playing career ended in 2011.

He had stints as an assistant coach with San Antonio, Philadelphia and Brooklyn before taking charge of the Celtics in June 2021 and had an impressive debut season. Under&nbsp;Udoka's guidance Boston developed the top defense in the NBA and closed last season on a 28-7 run.

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They beat the star-studded Brooklyn Nets in the first round, then ousted the Milwaukee Bucks in seven games in the second round. They dispatched the Miami Heat in seven games in the Eastern Conference finals to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010. They fell in six games to the Golden State Warriors in the championship series in June, but players were full of praise for&nbsp;Udoka.

"When you have a coach who's willing to hold you accountable, and not just you but everyone on the team the same way, that's how you know you have the makings of a great coach who's trying to get somewhere special," Boston's Marcus Smart said during the NBA Finals.

<h2>- NBA scandals -</h2>

The turmoil adds uncertainty to the upcoming Celtics' campaign after what had been an encouraging off-season that included the acquisition of Malcolm Brogdon and veteran free agent Danilo Gallinari. Gallinari tore a ligament in his left knee playing for Italy in a Basketball World Cup qualifier in August and will miss the season. Celtics Center Rob Williams is expected to miss the start of the season after knee surgery.

The affair is also another scandal for the NBA as the October 18 start of the season approaches. Embattled Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver, banned for a year and fined $10 million by the NBA for racist misogynist remarks and workplace bullying, said Wednesday he will sell the Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury.

That announcement came after NBA stars including the Suns Chris Paul and the Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James denounced the NBA punishment meted out to Sarver as too lenient. Sarver also came under pressure from sponsors, with Suns backer PayPal saying it would not renew its deal with the team if Sarver returned after his suspension.

The Boston Celtics suspended head coach Ime Udoka for the entire 2022-23 NBA season on Thursday for "violations of team policies." "A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date," the team said in a statement.

The Boston Celtics suspended head coach Ime Udoka for the entire 2022-23 NBA season on Thursday for "violations of team policies." "A decision about his future with the Celtics beyond this season will be made at a later date," the team said in a statement. "The suspension takes effect immediately." The Celtics did not specify what Udoka's policy violations were. ESPN and The Athletic reported that the 45-year-old Nigerian-American had a consensual relationship with a female member of the Celtics staff that broke the franchise's code of conduct. The punishment, among the harshest ever issued to an NBA head coach, comes with the Celtics' pre-season training camp due to open next week. In a statement obtained by ESPN, Udoka said he accepted the Celtics' decision. "I want to apologize to our players, fans, the entire Celtics organization, and my family for letting them down," Udoka said. "I am sorry for putting the team in this difficult situation, and I accept the team's decision. "Out of respect for everyone involved, I will have no further comment." Assistant coach Joe Mazzulla will step in as interim coach for the 2022-23 campaign, ESPN reported. Udoka's top assistant last season, Will Hardy, departed in June to become coach of the Utah Jazz. Udoka replaced Brad Stevens as coach last season after Stevens was promoted to president of basketball operations following the departure of Danny Ainge. Udoka played seven seasons in the NBA, the last four with San Antonio before his playing career ended in 2011. He had stints as an assistant coach with San Antonio, Philadelphia and Brooklyn before taking charge of the Celtics in June 2021 and had an impressive debut season. Under Udoka's guidance Boston developed the top defense in the NBA and closed last season on a 28-7 run. ALSO READ | Spain women's national football team in spot of bother following resignation of 15 players They beat the star-studded Brooklyn Nets in the first round, then ousted the Milwaukee Bucks in seven games in the second round. They dispatched the Miami Heat in seven games in the Eastern Conference finals to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010. They fell in six games to the Golden State Warriors in the championship series in June, but players were full of praise for Udoka. "When you have a coach who's willing to hold you accountable, and not just you but everyone on the team the same way, that's how you know you have the makings of a great coach who's trying to get somewhere special," Boston's Marcus Smart said during the NBA Finals. - NBA scandals - The turmoil adds uncertainty to the upcoming Celtics' campaign after what had been an encouraging off-season that included the acquisition of Malcolm Brogdon and veteran free agent Danilo Gallinari. Gallinari tore a ligament in his left knee playing for Italy in a Basketball World Cup qualifier in August and will miss the season. Celtics Center Rob Williams is expected to miss the start of the season after knee surgery. The affair is also another scandal for the NBA as the October 18 start of the season approaches. Embattled Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver, banned for a year and fined $10 million by the NBA for racist misogynist remarks and workplace bullying, said Wednesday he will sell the Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury. That announcement came after NBA stars including the Suns Chris Paul and the Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James denounced the NBA punishment meted out to Sarver as too lenient. Sarver also came under pressure from sponsors, with Suns backer PayPal saying it would not renew its deal with the team if Sarver returned after his suspension.

Boston Celtics suspend coach Ime Udoka for entire NBA season for 'violations of team policies'

A jersey worn by basketball legend Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;during Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals, his last title victory, sold for a record $10.1 million Thursday, Sotheby's said. The iconic red Chicago Bulls jersey, with&nbsp;Jordan's number 23 on the back, went for the highest amount of any game-worn sports memorabilia ever, the auction house said, and set a new record for a basketball jersey at auction.

The final sum was twice Sotheby's high estimate, and the jersey drew a total of 20 bids. The&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;swag beat a record set in May for the most expensive sports memorabilia ever sold, which had been Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey. The previous record for a game-worn basketball jersey was for one autographed by Kobe Bryant, who wore it in 1996-97. That piece of NBA memorabilia went for $3.7 million, according to Sotheby's.

The&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;jersey is only the second worn by the star during his six championships to be sold at auction. It is also the most expensive item of Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;sports memorabilia to be sold. The previous record was for $2.7 million, notched by an autographed relic card from 1997-98.

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<h2>- 'The Last Dance' -</h2>

Most of&nbsp;Jordan's NBA Finals jerseys remain in private hands, according to Sotheby's, although he has donated one to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Jordan, now 59, spent the bulk of his basketball career with the Bulls, with whom he won all six of his titles, but came out of retirement in 2001 to play two seasons with the Washington Wizards. His final season with the Bulls was detailed in the hit ESPN/Netflix documentary "The Last Dance" released in 2020.

Brahm Wachter, head of streetwear and modern collectables at Sotheby's, said in a statement that the sale "solidifies Michael&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;as the undisputed GOAT, proving his name and incomparable legacy is just as relevant as it was nearly 25 years ago."

The jersey was first publicly displayed in Monterey, California before being shipped to New York, where fans could view it during the online auction. The New York auction house, owned since 2019 by French-Israeli telecom magnate Patrick Drahi, previously sold a pair of&nbsp;Jordan's sneakers for nearly $1.5 million.

The retired basketball star currently owns the Charlotte Hornets, located in his childhood home of North Carolina, and reportedly still earns millions in royalties each year from sales of Nike's Air&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;brand of sneakers.

A jersey worn by basketball legend Michael Jordan during Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals, his last title victory, sold for a record $10.1 million Thursday, Sotheby's said.

A jersey worn by basketball legend Michael Jordan during Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals, his last title victory, sold for a record $10.1 million Thursday, Sotheby's said. The iconic red Chicago Bulls jersey, with Jordan's number 23 on the back, went for the highest amount of any game-worn sports memorabilia ever, the auction house said, and set a new record for a basketball jersey at auction. The final sum was twice Sotheby's high estimate, and the jersey drew a total of 20 bids. The Jordan swag beat a record set in May for the most expensive sports memorabilia ever sold, which had been Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" jersey. The previous record for a game-worn basketball jersey was for one autographed by Kobe Bryant, who wore it in 1996-97. That piece of NBA memorabilia went for $3.7 million, according to Sotheby's. The Jordan jersey is only the second worn by the star during his six championships to be sold at auction. It is also the most expensive item of Michael Jordan sports memorabilia to be sold. The previous record was for $2.7 million, notched by an autographed relic card from 1997-98. ALSO READ | Social media sensation Hasbulla Magomedov pens five-year deal with UFC - 'The Last Dance' - Most of Jordan's NBA Finals jerseys remain in private hands, according to Sotheby's, although he has donated one to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Jordan, now 59, spent the bulk of his basketball career with the Bulls, with whom he won all six of his titles, but came out of retirement in 2001 to play two seasons with the Washington Wizards. His final season with the Bulls was detailed in the hit ESPN/Netflix documentary "The Last Dance" released in 2020. Brahm Wachter, head of streetwear and modern collectables at Sotheby's, said in a statement that the sale "solidifies Michael Jordan as the undisputed GOAT, proving his name and incomparable legacy is just as relevant as it was nearly 25 years ago." The jersey was first publicly displayed in Monterey, California before being shipped to New York, where fans could view it during the online auction. The New York auction house, owned since 2019 by French-Israeli telecom magnate Patrick Drahi, previously sold a pair of Jordan's sneakers for nearly $1.5 million. The retired basketball star currently owns the Charlotte Hornets, located in his childhood home of North Carolina, and reportedly still earns millions in royalties each year from sales of Nike's Air Jordan brand of sneakers.

Basketball legend Michael Jordan's 'Last Dance' jersey sells for whopping $10.1 million

The&nbsp;Phoenix Suns have been dealt a heavy blow after their owner&nbsp;and that of sister team Phoenix Mercury,&nbsp; Robert Sarver, was slapped with a one-year-long suspension. In addition, he found himself at the receiving end of a whopping $10 million fine.

The NBA conducted an investigation, which prompted the authorities to level these penalties on the Suns' frontman. The probe revealed that Sarver had indulged in what the league defined as&nbsp;“workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies”.

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This comes nearly a year after the league initially contacted a law firm to get to the bottom of several allegations levelled against Sarver that claimed that he had a history of&nbsp;misogynistic,&nbsp;racist and hostile incidents.

Sarver, who has been at the helm of the franchise for over two decades, found himself disagreeing with certain findings of the investigation. However, he accepted the consequences of his actions and vowed to abide by the league's decision regardless. He further issued an apology to all those employees, who may have felt offended by his statements.

The report stated that Sarver 'repeated or purported to repeat the N-word on at least five occasions spanning his tenure with the Suns.' However, it is interesting to note that the investigation could not prove whether his usage of the slur was meant to demean or degrade any individuals.

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Sarver also issued a statement after finding himself at the receiving end of the heftiest fine that is allowed by the NBA. "I take full responsibility for what I have done. I am sorry for causing this pain, and these errors in judgment are not consistent with my personal philosophy or my values.

"This moment is an opportunity for me to demonstrate a capacity to learn and grow as we continue to build a working culture where every employee feels comfortable and valued,” said Sarver.

The Phoenix Suns have been dealt a heavy blow after their owner and that of sister team Phoenix Mercury, Robert Sarver, was slapped with a one-year-long suspension.

The Phoenix Suns have been dealt a heavy blow after their owner and that of sister team Phoenix Mercury, Robert Sarver, was slapped with a one-year-long suspension. In addition, he found himself at the receiving end of a whopping $10 million fine. The NBA conducted an investigation, which prompted the authorities to level these penalties on the Suns' frontman. The probe revealed that Sarver had indulged in what the league defined as “workplace misconduct and organizational deficiencies”. ALSO READ: Champions League matchday 2 marred by Nazi salutes and protests against delaying fixtures over Queen's death This comes nearly a year after the league initially contacted a law firm to get to the bottom of several allegations levelled against Sarver that claimed that he had a history of misogynistic, racist and hostile incidents. Sarver, who has been at the helm of the franchise for over two decades, found himself disagreeing with certain findings of the investigation. However, he accepted the consequences of his actions and vowed to abide by the league's decision regardless. He further issued an apology to all those employees, who may have felt offended by his statements. The report stated that Sarver 'repeated or purported to repeat the N-word on at least five occasions spanning his tenure with the Suns.' However, it is interesting to note that the investigation could not prove whether his usage of the slur was meant to demean or degrade any individuals. ALSO READ: India's campaign will be the same as it was at Asia Cup: Danish Kaneria warns Rohit Sharma & Co. Sarver also issued a statement after finding himself at the receiving end of the heftiest fine that is allowed by the NBA. "I take full responsibility for what I have done. I am sorry for causing this pain, and these errors in judgment are not consistent with my personal philosophy or my values. "This moment is an opportunity for me to demonstrate a capacity to learn and grow as we continue to build a working culture where every employee feels comfortable and valued,” said Sarver.

Phoenix Suns owner Robert Sarver slapped with a one-year ban and a $10m for misconduct

Kobe Bryant's widow was awarded USD 16 million as part of a USD 31 million jury verdict Wednesday against Low Angeles County for deputies and firefighters sharing grisly photos of the NBA star, his 13-year-old daughter and other victims killed in a 2020 helicopter crash. The nine jurors unanimously agreed with Vanessa Bryant and her attorneys that the photos invaded her privacy and caused emotional distress. She cried quietly as it was read.

The jury deliberated 4 1/2 hours before reaching the verdict on Kobe Bryant Day, which is celebrated in LA on August 24 because it represents his jersey numbers&nbsp;8 and 24 and is the day after his birthday. Tuesday would have been Bryant's 44th birthday. An attorney for the county declined comment on the verdict outside the courtroom.

The pictures were shared mostly between employees of the LA County sheriff's and fire departments including by some who were playing video games and attending an awards banquet. They were also seen by some of their spouses and in one case by a bartender at a bar where a deputy was drinking. 
Vanessa Bryant tearfully testified during the 11-day trial that news of the photos compounded her still-raw grief a month after losing her husband and daughter, and that she still has panic attacks at the thought that they might still be out there. "I live in fear every day of being on social media and these popping up," she testified. "I live in fear of my daughters being on social media and these popping up."

Her co-plaintiff Chris Chester, whose wife and daughter were also among the nine people killed in the crash, was awarded USD 15 million. "We're grateful for a jury and a judge who gave us a fair trial," said Chester's lawyer Jerry Jackson.

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Vanessa Bryant's attorneys did not give jurors a dollar amount they thought their client deserved, but Chester's attorney gave them suggested guidelines that would have meant tens of millions for each plaintiff. 
Vanessa Bryant and her attorney declined comment outside court Wednesday. Her face was still streaked with tears as she walked past TV cameras and dozens of reporters and climbed into an SUV. 
Vanessa Bryant's lawyer Luis Li told jurors that the close-up photos had no official or investigative purpose, and were mere "visual gossip" shared out of a gruesome curiosity.

County attorney J. Mira Hashmall argued during the trial that the photos were a necessary tool for assessing the situation. She acknowledged that they should not have been shared with everyone who saw them. But she emphasized that the photos had never appeared publicly, and had never even been seen by the plaintiffs. She said that meant that Sheriff Alex Villanueva and other officials had taken decisive and effective action when they ordered those who had the photos to delete them.

Kobe Bryant, the former Lakers star, five-time NBA champion and member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, was traveling with Gianna and seven others to a youth basketball game when the helicopter they were aboard crashed into hills in Calabasas west of Los Angeles on Jan.

Kobe Bryant's widow was awarded USD 16 million as part of a USD 31 million jury verdict Wednesday against Low Angeles County for deputies and firefighters sharing grisly photos of the NBA star, his 13-year-old daughter and other victims killed in a 2020 helicopter crash.

Kobe Bryant's widow was awarded USD 16 million as part of a USD 31 million jury verdict Wednesday against Low Angeles County for deputies and firefighters sharing grisly photos of the NBA star, his 13-year-old daughter and other victims killed in a 2020 helicopter crash. The nine jurors unanimously agreed with Vanessa Bryant and her attorneys that the photos invaded her privacy and caused emotional distress. She cried quietly as it was read. The jury deliberated 4 1/2 hours before reaching the verdict on Kobe Bryant Day, which is celebrated in LA on August 24 because it represents his jersey numbers 8 and 24 and is the day after his birthday. Tuesday would have been Bryant's 44th birthday. An attorney for the county declined comment on the verdict outside the courtroom. The pictures were shared mostly between employees of the LA County sheriff's and fire departments including by some who were playing video games and attending an awards banquet. They were also seen by some of their spouses and in one case by a bartender at a bar where a deputy was drinking. Vanessa Bryant tearfully testified during the 11-day trial that news of the photos compounded her still-raw grief a month after losing her husband and daughter, and that she still has panic attacks at the thought that they might still be out there. "I live in fear every day of being on social media and these popping up," she testified. "I live in fear of my daughters being on social media and these popping up." Her co-plaintiff Chris Chester, whose wife and daughter were also among the nine people killed in the crash, was awarded USD 15 million. "We're grateful for a jury and a judge who gave us a fair trial," said Chester's lawyer Jerry Jackson. ALSO READ | Kevin Durant drops trade demand, set to stay with Brooklyn Nets after meeting with owners and Steve Nash Vanessa Bryant's attorneys did not give jurors a dollar amount they thought their client deserved, but Chester's attorney gave them suggested guidelines that would have meant tens of millions for each plaintiff. Vanessa Bryant and her attorney declined comment outside court Wednesday. Her face was still streaked with tears as she walked past TV cameras and dozens of reporters and climbed into an SUV. Vanessa Bryant's lawyer Luis Li told jurors that the close-up photos had no official or investigative purpose, and were mere "visual gossip" shared out of a gruesome curiosity. County attorney J. Mira Hashmall argued during the trial that the photos were a necessary tool for assessing the situation. She acknowledged that they should not have been shared with everyone who saw them. But she emphasized that the photos had never appeared publicly, and had never even been seen by the plaintiffs. She said that meant that Sheriff Alex Villanueva and other officials had taken decisive and effective action when they ordered those who had the photos to delete them. Kobe Bryant, the former Lakers star, five-time NBA champion and member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, was traveling with Gianna and seven others to a youth basketball game when the helicopter they were aboard crashed into hills in Calabasas west of Los Angeles on Jan.

Late LA Lakers basketballer Kobe Bryant's widow awarded USD 16M in trial over crash photos

The White House has a dim view of former American pro basketball player Dennis Rodman's reported plan to travel to Russia and gain the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

Griner, 31, is a two-time Olympic champion and star player in the Women's National Basketball Association (WBNA). Earlier this month she convicted by a Russian court and given a nine-year sentence on drug charges.

U.S. President Joe Biden has condemned the verdict, calling it "unacceptable." The United States has offered to exchange her for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer serving a 25-year prison sentence in the United States.

Rodman told NBC News on Saturday that he plans to visit Russia to seek Griner's release. "I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman said.

"I'm trying to go this week." The NBC story did not explain who he received permission from. A senior administration official, who asked to remain anonymous, made clear the White House does not approve.

"It is public information that the administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts," the official said.

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The official also noted the State Department has issued a travel advisory warning Americans not to travel to Russia. Rodman has sought to inject himself into international diplomacy in the past. He is one of a handful of Westerners to have met North Korean head of state Kim Jong Un.

The White House has a dim view of former American pro basketball player Dennis Rodman's reported plan to travel to Russia and gain the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The White House has a dim view of former American pro basketball player Dennis Rodman's reported plan to travel to Russia and gain the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday. Griner, 31, is a two-time Olympic champion and star player in the Women's National Basketball Association (WBNA). Earlier this month she convicted by a Russian court and given a nine-year sentence on drug charges. U.S. President Joe Biden has condemned the verdict, calling it "unacceptable." The United States has offered to exchange her for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer serving a 25-year prison sentence in the United States. Rodman told NBC News on Saturday that he plans to visit Russia to seek Griner's release. "I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman said. "I'm trying to go this week." The NBC story did not explain who he received permission from. A senior administration official, who asked to remain anonymous, made clear the White House does not approve. "It is public information that the administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts," the official said. ALSO READ | Tiger Woods leads PGA Tour's fightback against breakaway LIV Golf Series The official also noted the State Department has issued a travel advisory warning Americans not to travel to Russia. Rodman has sought to inject himself into international diplomacy in the past. He is one of a handful of Westerners to have met North Korean head of state Kim Jong Un.

US disapproves of Dennis Rodman's planned rescue mission for basketball star Brittney Griner

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday.

Durant, a two-times NBA champion and twice Finals MVP, had requested a trade at the end of June before free agency, with the 12-times All-Star linked to teams such as the Boston Celtics, the Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors.

"Steve Nash and I, together with (Nets co-owners) Joe Tsai and Clara Wu Tsai, met with Kevin Durant and (his manager) Rich Kleiman in Los Angeles yesterday," Nets General Manager Sean Marks said in a statement.

"We have agreed to move forward with our partnership. We are focusing on basketball, with one collective goal in mind: build a lasting franchise to bring a championship to Brooklyn."

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Last year, Durant had signed a four-year, $198 million extension that begins this season. He was sixth on the list of the world's highest-paid athletes over the last year according to Forbes, earning $92 million in total earnings.

He averaged 29.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 55 games last season.

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Durant had joined Brooklyn as a free agent in 2019 alongside Kyrie Irving in a bid to form a championship winning team along with James Harden, who was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal that brought Ben Simmons to the Nets. 
&nbsp;

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday.

All-Star forward Kevin Durant is set to stay with the Brooklyn Nets after a meeting with head coach Steve Nash and the franchise's owners, the team announced on Tuesday. Durant, a two-times NBA champion and twice Finals MVP, had requested a trade at the end of June before free agency, with the 12-times All-Star linked to teams such as the Boston Celtics, the Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors. "Steve Nash and I, together with (Nets co-owners) Joe Tsai and Clara Wu Tsai, met with Kevin Durant and (his manager) Rich Kleiman in Los Angeles yesterday," Nets General Manager Sean Marks said in a statement. "We have agreed to move forward with our partnership. We are focusing on basketball, with one collective goal in mind: build a lasting franchise to bring a championship to Brooklyn." Also Read: US disapproves of Dennis Rodman's planned rescue mission for basketball star Brittney Griner Last year, Durant had signed a four-year, $198 million extension that begins this season. He was sixth on the list of the world's highest-paid athletes over the last year according to Forbes, earning $92 million in total earnings. He averaged 29.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 6.4 assists in 55 games last season. Also Read: Pakistan Army to assist Qatar wth security during FIFA World Cup 2022 Durant had joined Brooklyn as a free agent in 2019 alongside Kyrie Irving in a bid to form a championship winning team along with James Harden, who was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a deal that brought Ben Simmons to the Nets.

Kevin Durant drops trade demand, set to stay with Brooklyn Nets after meeting with owners and Steve Nash

Eccentric former NBA star Dennis Rodman is planning a trip to Russia in an effort to seek the release of imprisoned WNBA player Brittney Griner, NBC News reported on Sunday.

The network quoted Rodman as saying that he was hoping to fly to Russia this week in an attempt to help basketball superstar Griner, who was sentenced to nine years in jail by a Moscow court earlier this month on a drug charge.

"I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman told NBC. "I'm trying to go this week."

No further details were provided by Rodman, who was speaking at a restaurant in Washington where he was attending a sports apparel convention, according to NBC.

A senior official for US President Joe Biden's administration said in a statement to AFP, "it is public information that the Administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts."

Rodman, 61, a five-time former NBA champion, has a record of unorthodox forays into geopolitics.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brittney-griner-convicted-a-day-after-verdict-russia-ready-to-discuss-swap-with-us-503971">Brittney Griner convicted: A day after verdict, Russia ready to discuss swap with US</a>

He has formed a relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un over the past decade, and has made several trips to the reclusive state. He traveled to Singapore in 2018 when Kim famously met former US President Donald Trump.

Rodman has also spoken approvingly of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past. In 2014 he described Putin as "actually cool" after meeting the Russian leader in Moscow.

Two-time Olympic basketball gold medalist and Women's NBA champion Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport in February for possessing vape cartridges with a small amount of cannabis oil.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/brittney-griner-guilty-of-deliberate-drug-smuggling-how-it-panned-out-for-two-time-olympic-gold-medallist-503715">Brittney Griner guilty of deliberate drug smuggling: How it panned out for two-time Olympic gold medallist</a>

The 31-year-old, who was in Russia to play for the professional Yekaterinburg team during her off-season from the Phoenix Mercury, was charged with smuggling narcotics and was sentenced to nine years in a penal colony in early August.

Griner pleaded guilty to the charges, but said she did not intend to use the banned substance in Russia.

Since her arrest, Moscow and Washington have been in talks about a potential prisoner exchange, despite soaring tensions over Russia's military intervention in Ukraine.

Eccentric former NBA star Dennis Rodman is planning a trip to Russia in an effort to seek the release of imprisoned WNBA player Brittney Griner, NBC News reported on Sunday.

Eccentric former NBA star Dennis Rodman is planning a trip to Russia in an effort to seek the release of imprisoned WNBA player Brittney Griner, NBC News reported on Sunday. The network quoted Rodman as saying that he was hoping to fly to Russia this week in an attempt to help basketball superstar Griner, who was sentenced to nine years in jail by a Moscow court earlier this month on a drug charge. "I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman told NBC. "I'm trying to go this week." No further details were provided by Rodman, who was speaking at a restaurant in Washington where he was attending a sports apparel convention, according to NBC. A senior official for US President Joe Biden's administration said in a statement to AFP, "it is public information that the Administration has made a significant offer to the Russians and anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder release efforts." Rodman, 61, a five-time former NBA champion, has a record of unorthodox forays into geopolitics. Also Read: Brittney Griner convicted: A day after verdict, Russia ready to discuss swap with US He has formed a relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un over the past decade, and has made several trips to the reclusive state. He traveled to Singapore in 2018 when Kim famously met former US President Donald Trump. Rodman has also spoken approvingly of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the past. In 2014 he described Putin as "actually cool" after meeting the Russian leader in Moscow. Two-time Olympic basketball gold medalist and Women's NBA champion Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport in February for possessing vape cartridges with a small amount of cannabis oil. Also Read: Brittney Griner guilty of deliberate drug smuggling: How it panned out for two-time Olympic gold medallist The 31-year-old, who was in Russia to play for the professional Yekaterinburg team during her off-season from the Phoenix Mercury, was charged with smuggling narcotics and was sentenced to nine years in a penal colony in early August. Griner pleaded guilty to the charges, but said she did not intend to use the banned substance in Russia. Since her arrest, Moscow and Washington have been in talks about a potential prisoner exchange, despite soaring tensions over Russia's military intervention in Ukraine.

Former NBA star Dennis Rodman planning Russia trip to seek release of jailed Brittney Griner - Report

Lawyers for American basketball star Brittney Griner on Monday filed an appeal against her 9-year Russian prison sentence for drugs possession, Russian news agencies reported. Griner, a center for the Phoenix Mercury and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, was convicted on Aug. 4. She was arrested in February at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport after vape canisters containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage. 
Griner played for a women's basketball team in Yekaterinburg during the WNBA off-season.

Lawyer Maria Blagovolina was quoted by Russian news agencies on Monday as saying the appeal was filed, but the grounds of the appeal were not immediately clear. Blagovolina and co-counsel Alexander Boykov said after the conviction that the sentence was excessive and that in similar cases defendants have received an average sentence of about five years, with about a third of them granted parole.

Griner admitted that she had the canisters in her luggage, but said she had inadvertently packed them in haste and that she had no criminal intent. Her defense team presented written statements that she had been prescribed cannabis to treat pain. Before her conviction, the US State Department declared Griner to be wrongfully detained.

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Secretary of State Antony Blinken took the unusual step of revealing publicly in July that the U.S. Had made a substantial proposal&nbsp;to get Griner home, along with Paul Whelan, an American serving a 16-year sentence in Russia for espionage. He did not elaborate, but the AP and other news organizations have reported that the US has offered to free Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer who is serving a 25-year sentence in the US and once earned the nickname the Merchant of Death.

On Sunday, a senior Russian diplomat said exchange talks have been conducted. This quite sensitive issue of the swap of convicted Russian and US citizens is being discussed through the channels defined by our presidents. These individuals are, indeed, being discussed. The Russian side has long been seeking the release of Viktor Bout. The details should be left to professionals, proceeding from the do not harm' principle,'&nbsp;Alexander Darchiev, head of the foreign ministry's North America department, told state news agency Tass.

Lawyers for American basketball star Brittney Griner on Monday filed an appeal against her 9-year Russian prison sentence for drugs possession, Russian news agencies reported.

Lawyers for American basketball star Brittney Griner on Monday filed an appeal against her 9-year Russian prison sentence for drugs possession, Russian news agencies reported. Griner, a center for the Phoenix Mercury and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, was convicted on Aug. 4. She was arrested in February at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport after vape canisters containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage. Griner played for a women's basketball team in Yekaterinburg during the WNBA off-season. Lawyer Maria Blagovolina was quoted by Russian news agencies on Monday as saying the appeal was filed, but the grounds of the appeal were not immediately clear. Blagovolina and co-counsel Alexander Boykov said after the conviction that the sentence was excessive and that in similar cases defendants have received an average sentence of about five years, with about a third of them granted parole. Griner admitted that she had the canisters in her luggage, but said she had inadvertently packed them in haste and that she had no criminal intent. Her defense team presented written statements that she had been prescribed cannabis to treat pain. Before her conviction, the US State Department declared Griner to be wrongfully detained. ALSO READ | Brittney Griner trial: Russia says there is no deal on swapping US basketballer for jailed arms trafficker Secretary of State Antony Blinken took the unusual step of revealing publicly in July that the U.S. Had made a substantial proposal to get Griner home, along with Paul Whelan, an American serving a 16-year sentence in Russia for espionage. He did not elaborate, but the AP and other news organizations have reported that the US has offered to free Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer who is serving a 25-year sentence in the US and once earned the nickname the Merchant of Death. On Sunday, a senior Russian diplomat said exchange talks have been conducted. This quite sensitive issue of the swap of convicted Russian and US citizens is being discussed through the channels defined by our presidents. These individuals are, indeed, being discussed. The Russian side has long been seeking the release of Viktor Bout. The details should be left to professionals, proceeding from the do not harm' principle,' Alexander Darchiev, head of the foreign ministry's North America department, told state news agency Tass.

Brittney Griner's lawyers file an appeal against her 9-year Russian prison sentence for drugs possession

The US and Russia are discussing a prisoner exchange that would involve trading a notorious Russian arms trafficker for an American basketball star, a Russian diplomat said on Saturday. It marked the first time that Russia said that the talks concerned exchanging Viktor Bout, known as the "Merchant of Death," for two-time Olympian Brittney&nbsp;Griner.

"The discussions on the very sensitive topic of an exchange are proceeding via the channels chosen by our presidents," Alexander Datchiev, the head the North America department at the Russian foreign ministry, was quoted as saying by the state news agency TASS. "Silent diplomacy continues and should bear fruit if Washington, of course, is careful not to fall into propaganda," he said.

Griner&nbsp;was arrested at a Moscow airport in February for possessing vape cartridges with a small amount of cannabis oil. The 31-year-old, who was in Russia to play for the professional Yekaterinburg team during her off-season from the Phoenix Mercury, was charged with smuggling narcotics and was sentenced to nine years in a penal colony in early August.

Bout was arrested in Thailand in 2008 and then extradited to the US, where in 2012 he was sentenced to 25 years in prison on charges of arming rebels in some of the world's bloodiest conflicts.

He inspired the 2005 arms smuggling movie "Lord of War" starring Nicolas Cage and was dubbed the "Merchant of Death" by former British minister Peter Hain for supplying weapons to war-torn Angola and Liberia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brittney-griner-trial-russia-says-there-is-no-deal-on-swapping-us-basketballer-for-jailed-arms-trafficker-501438">Brittney Griner trial: Russia says there is no deal on swapping US basketballer for jailed arms trafficker</a>

Russia has long sought his release. Last weekend, Bill Richardson, a former US ambassador to the UN&nbsp;who has negotiated the release of several Americans held in other countries, said he was "optimistic" about efforts to negotiate a "two for two" prisoner swap with Russia.

"I think she's going to be freed, I think she has the right strategy of contrition, there's going to be a prisoner swap -- though I think it will be two for two, involving Paul Whelan," he told ABC's "This Week," insisting that he was only a "catalyst" in any negotiations.

Whelan is a former US Marine who was convicted of espionage in June 2020 and sentenced to 16 years in prison. He has insisted on his innocence.

The US and Russia are discussing a prisoner exchange that would involve trading a notorious Russian arms trafficker for an American basketball star, a Russian diplomat said on Saturday.

The US and Russia are discussing a prisoner exchange that would involve trading a notorious Russian arms trafficker for an American basketball star, a Russian diplomat said on Saturday. It marked the first time that Russia said that the talks concerned exchanging Viktor Bout, known as the "Merchant of Death," for two-time Olympian Brittney Griner. "The discussions on the very sensitive topic of an exchange are proceeding via the channels chosen by our presidents," Alexander Datchiev, the head the North America department at the Russian foreign ministry, was quoted as saying by the state news agency TASS. "Silent diplomacy continues and should bear fruit if Washington, of course, is careful not to fall into propaganda," he said. Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport in February for possessing vape cartridges with a small amount of cannabis oil. The 31-year-old, who was in Russia to play for the professional Yekaterinburg team during her off-season from the Phoenix Mercury, was charged with smuggling narcotics and was sentenced to nine years in a penal colony in early August. Bout was arrested in Thailand in 2008 and then extradited to the US, where in 2012 he was sentenced to 25 years in prison on charges of arming rebels in some of the world's bloodiest conflicts. He inspired the 2005 arms smuggling movie "Lord of War" starring Nicolas Cage and was dubbed the "Merchant of Death" by former British minister Peter Hain for supplying weapons to war-torn Angola and Liberia. ALSO READ | Brittney Griner trial: Russia says there is no deal on swapping US basketballer for jailed arms trafficker Russia has long sought his release. Last weekend, Bill Richardson, a former US ambassador to the UN who has negotiated the release of several Americans held in other countries, said he was "optimistic" about efforts to negotiate a "two for two" prisoner swap with Russia. "I think she's going to be freed, I think she has the right strategy of contrition, there's going to be a prisoner swap -- though I think it will be two for two, involving Paul Whelan," he told ABC's "This Week," insisting that he was only a "catalyst" in any negotiations. Whelan is a former US Marine who was convicted of espionage in June 2020 and sentenced to 16 years in prison. He has insisted on his innocence.

Russia, US in talks over 'Merchant of Death' swap for basketballer Brittney Griner: Moscow

Brittney Griner guilty of deliberate drug smuggling: How it panned out for two-time Olympic gold medallist

A Russian court has sentenced US basketball star Brittney Griner to nine years in prison on drug charges. The court near Moscow convicted her of smuggling and possessing narcotics.

Brittney Griner: US basketball star sentenced for nine years on drug charges

A video of Andrea Garcia Lopez&nbsp;lighting up the court in her tiny, isolated town of San Esteban Atatlahuca in the southern state of Oaxaca has been viewed over a&nbsp;million times since it was shared by her grandson, earning her the title “Granny Jordan” among TikTok users.

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Lopez, a local craftswoman with her grey hair woven in two long braids, wearing a long skirt, tricks an opponent close to the basket to create room for a shot that she skillfully scores off the backboard. Even though her knee is starting to act up a little, she aspires to continue playing for many years.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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A video of Andrea Garcia Lopez lighting up the court in her tiny, isolated town of San Esteban Atatlahuca in the southern state of Oaxaca has been viewed over a million times since it was shared by her grandson, earning her the title “Granny Jordan” among TikTok users.

A video of Andrea Garcia Lopez lighting up the court in her tiny, isolated town of San Esteban Atatlahuca in the southern state of Oaxaca has been viewed over a million times since it was shared by her grandson, earning her the title “Granny Jordan” among TikTok users. × Lopez, a local craftswoman with her grey hair woven in two long braids, wearing a long skirt, tricks an opponent close to the basket to create room for a shot that she skillfully scores off the backboard. Even though her knee is starting to act up a little, she aspires to continue playing for many years. (with inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Mexico’s 71-year-old basketball player ‘Granny Jordan’ is now viral TikTok celebrity

A Russian court on Thursday found U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner guilty of deliberately bringing cannabis-infused vape cartridges into Russia despite them being illegal, after the athlete said she had made an honest mistake by packing them.

Her sentencing, which is due to take place within hours, could pave the way for a prisoner swap between Russia and the United States that would include the 31-year-old athlete and an imprisoned Russian who was once a prolific arms dealer.

Griner had admitted bringing in the vape cartridges infused with hashish oil, but earlier pleaded with the court`s judge not to "end her life" with a harsh prison sentence, before breaking down in tears in court. 
The Russian prosecutor called for Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star, to be sentenced to 9-1/2 years prison if she was found guilty of bringing illegal drugs into the country.

Griner was detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport on Feb. 17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage. She pleaded guilty but said she had neither intended to bring a banned substance to Russia nor to hurt anybody.

"I made an honest mistake and I hope that in your ruling, that it doesn`t end my life here," Griner said in court before breaking down in tears. "My parents taught me two important things: one, take ownership of your responsibilities and two, work hard for everything that you have. That`s why I pled guilty to my charges."

The case threw the Texan athlete into the geopolitical maelstrom triggered when President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24. With U.S.-Russian relations at their most strained since the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, U.S. President Joe Biden is under pressure to intervene on behalf of Americans held in Russia.

"I know everybody keeps talking about political pawn and politics, but I hope that is far from this courtroom," Griner said. Cannabis is illegal in Russia for both medicinal and recreational purposes.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brittney-griner-trial-basketballers-lawyer-says-some-of-her-case-files-were-drawn-up-in-violation-of-law-503646">Brittney Griner trial: Basketballer's lawyer says some of her case files were drawn up in violation of law</a>

SPORTING LEGEND 
Griner`s lawyers told the court she should be acquitted but that if the court deemed it necessary to punish her, she should be treated leniently, casting her as a sporting legend alongside Usain Bolt and Michael Schumacher.

"In sprinting there is Usain Bolt, in Formula 1 Michael Schumacher, and in women`s basketball there is Brittney Griner," lawyer Maria Blagovolina, a partner at Rybalkin Gortsunyan Dyakin and Partners law firm, told the court.

Alexander Boikov, her other lawyer, said some of the case files were drawn up in violation of the law. The United States has said Griner was wrongfully detained and has offered to exchange Russian prisoners for American citizens including Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan. "I want to say again that I had no intent on breaking any Russians laws," Griner told the court. "I had no intent, I did not conspire or plan to commit this crime."

GEOPOLITICAL `PAWN`?

One source familiar with the situation said that Washington was willing to exchange convicted arms trafficker Viktor Bout, whose life helped inspire the 2005 Hollywood film "Lord of War" starring Nicholas Cage. 
Russian officials have said a deal has not been reached. They argue that Griner - known as "BG" to basketball fans - violated laws and should be judged accordingly. Griner appeared at the hearing in a grey T-shirt and round-rimmed glasses. Before taking a seat in the defendant`s cage, she held up a team picture of UMMC Ekaterinburg, the team she played for in Russia during the WNBA offseason.

In her testimony last week, Griner expressed puzzlement as to how the vape cartridges ended up in her luggage as she was flying back to Russia to join UMMC Ekaterinburg for the playoffs. "I still don`t understand to this day how they ended up in my bag," said Griner, the first pick overall in the 2013 WNBA draft. "If I had to guess on how they ended up in my bags, I was in a rush packing."

Griner had been prescribed medical marijuana in the United States to relieve pain from chronic injuries, a treatment method that is common among elite athletes because it has fewer side effects than some painkillers.

A Russian court on Thursday found U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner guilty of deliberately bringing cannabis-infused vape cartridges into Russia despite them being illegal, after the athlete said she had made an honest mistake by packing them.

A Russian court on Thursday found U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner guilty of deliberately bringing cannabis-infused vape cartridges into Russia despite them being illegal, after the athlete said she had made an honest mistake by packing them. Her sentencing, which is due to take place within hours, could pave the way for a prisoner swap between Russia and the United States that would include the 31-year-old athlete and an imprisoned Russian who was once a prolific arms dealer. Griner had admitted bringing in the vape cartridges infused with hashish oil, but earlier pleaded with the court`s judge not to "end her life" with a harsh prison sentence, before breaking down in tears in court. The Russian prosecutor called for Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star, to be sentenced to 9-1/2 years prison if she was found guilty of bringing illegal drugs into the country. Griner was detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport on Feb. 17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage. She pleaded guilty but said she had neither intended to bring a banned substance to Russia nor to hurt anybody. "I made an honest mistake and I hope that in your ruling, that it doesn`t end my life here," Griner said in court before breaking down in tears. "My parents taught me two important things: one, take ownership of your responsibilities and two, work hard for everything that you have. That`s why I pled guilty to my charges." The case threw the Texan athlete into the geopolitical maelstrom triggered when President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24. With U.S.-Russian relations at their most strained since the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, U.S. President Joe Biden is under pressure to intervene on behalf of Americans held in Russia. "I know everybody keeps talking about political pawn and politics, but I hope that is far from this courtroom," Griner said. Cannabis is illegal in Russia for both medicinal and recreational purposes. ALSO READ | Brittney Griner trial: Basketballer's lawyer says some of her case files were drawn up in violation of law SPORTING LEGEND Griner`s lawyers told the court she should be acquitted but that if the court deemed it necessary to punish her, she should be treated leniently, casting her as a sporting legend alongside Usain Bolt and Michael Schumacher. "In sprinting there is Usain Bolt, in Formula 1 Michael Schumacher, and in women`s basketball there is Brittney Griner," lawyer Maria Blagovolina, a partner at Rybalkin Gortsunyan Dyakin and Partners law firm, told the court. Alexander Boikov, her other lawyer, said some of the case files were drawn up in violation of the law. The United States has said Griner was wrongfully detained and has offered to exchange Russian prisoners for American citizens including Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan. "I want to say again that I had no intent on breaking any Russians laws," Griner told the court. "I had no intent, I did not conspire or plan to commit this crime." GEOPOLITICAL `PAWN`? One source familiar with the situation said that Washington was willing to exchange convicted arms trafficker Viktor Bout, whose life helped inspire the 2005 Hollywood film "Lord of War" starring Nicholas Cage. Russian officials have said a deal has not been reached. They argue that Griner - known as "BG" to basketball fans - violated laws and should be judged accordingly. Griner appeared at the hearing in a grey T-shirt and round-rimmed glasses. Before taking a seat in the defendant`s cage, she held up a team picture of UMMC Ekaterinburg, the team she played for in Russia during the WNBA offseason. In her testimony last week, Griner expressed puzzlement as to how the vape cartridges ended up in her luggage as she was flying back to Russia to join UMMC Ekaterinburg for the playoffs. "I still don`t understand to this day how they ended up in my bag," said Griner, the first pick overall in the 2013 WNBA draft. "If I had to guess on how they ended up in my bags, I was in a rush packing." Griner had been prescribed medical marijuana in the United States to relieve pain from chronic injuries, a treatment method that is common among elite athletes because it has fewer side effects than some painkillers.

Russia court finds basketball star Brittney Griner guilty of deliberate drug smuggling

Alexander Boikov, a lawyer of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner, who is awaiting sentencing on drugs charges in Russia, said on Thursday during closing arguments in her trial that some of the case files in relation to Griner were drawn up in violation of the law.

A Russian state prosecutor has asked for 9.5 years in prison for Griner, who was convicted of bringing cannabis into Russia. Griner`s defence team have requested a more lenient sentence.

Griner, on Thursday, asked a Russian court not to "end my life" as prosecutors requested she be sentenced to nine and a half years in prison on drug smuggling charges. "I made an honest mistake and I hope that your ruling doesn't end my life here," she told the court in the town of Khimki just outside Moscow.

Alexander Boikov, a lawyer of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner, who is awaiting sentencing on drugs charges in Russia, said on Thursday during closing arguments in her trial that some of the case files in relation to Griner were drawn up in violation of the law.

Alexander Boikov, a lawyer of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner, who is awaiting sentencing on drugs charges in Russia, said on Thursday during closing arguments in her trial that some of the case files in relation to Griner were drawn up in violation of the law. A Russian state prosecutor has asked for 9.5 years in prison for Griner, who was convicted of bringing cannabis into Russia. Griner`s defence team have requested a more lenient sentence. Griner, on Thursday, asked a Russian court not to "end my life" as prosecutors requested she be sentenced to nine and a half years in prison on drug smuggling charges. "I made an honest mistake and I hope that your ruling doesn't end my life here," she told the court in the town of Khimki just outside Moscow.

Brittney Griner trial: Basketballer's lawyer says some of her case files were drawn up in violation of law

The Russian drugs trial of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner should be over "very soon", her lawyer said on Tuesday, as the Kremlin warned the United States that megaphone diplomacy would not secure a prisoner swap for the 31-year-old Texan.

Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star, was detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport on Feb. 17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage. She has pleaded guilty to the drugs charges against her but has denied that she intended to break Russian law. She faces up to 10 years in prison.

Lawyer Maria Blagovolina, partner at Rybalkin, Gortsunyan, Dyakin and Partners law firm, said a verdict in the case was expected "very soon." The defence and prosecution are expected to deliver their closing arguments on Thursday. The case against Griner has highlighted Russia`s fraught relations with the United States, which have plunged to a new post-Cold War low over Moscow`s actions in Ukraine.

Blagovolina said Griner heard that Washington had made what Secretary of State Antony Blinken called a "substantial offer" to Moscow to release American citizens held in Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who had expressed surprise at the public nature of Blinken`s comments at the time, said on Tuesday that any talk of a possible swap needed to be discreet.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketball-star-brittney-griner-appears-in-russian-court-after-us-makes-swap-offer-502849">Basketball star Brittney Griner appears in Russian court after U.S. makes swap offer</a>

"We still believe that any exchanges of information on this topic should be discreet," Peskov told reporters on a conference call. "Megaphone diplomacy and the public exchange of opinions will not lead to results."

`THE END IS NEAR` 
Griner, who appeared in Khimki District Court outside Moscow in a plain khaki T-shirt and round-rimmed glasses, was both focused and nervous as her trial approaches its end, her lawyer said. "She still knows that the end (of her trial) is near and of course she heard the news, so she is hoping that sometime she could be coming home," Blagovolina said.

A source said that Washington was willing to exchange convicted arms trafficker Viktor Bout, known as the "Merchant of Death". Blagovolina said a swap was "legally possible" after the verdict, which is expected no later than mid-August.

Griner testified last week that she could not understand how the vape cartridges had ended up in her luggage, speculating that she had inadvertently packed them as she rushed to leave. Griner had been her way to join her Russian team, UMMC Ekaterinburg, for the playoffs after spending time at home in the United States.

The Russian drugs trial of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner should be over "very soon", her lawyer said on Tuesday, as the Kremlin warned the United States that megaphone diplomacy would not secure a prisoner swap for the 31-year-old Texan.

The Russian drugs trial of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner should be over "very soon", her lawyer said on Tuesday, as the Kremlin warned the United States that megaphone diplomacy would not secure a prisoner swap for the 31-year-old Texan. Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star, was detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport on Feb. 17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage. She has pleaded guilty to the drugs charges against her but has denied that she intended to break Russian law. She faces up to 10 years in prison. Lawyer Maria Blagovolina, partner at Rybalkin, Gortsunyan, Dyakin and Partners law firm, said a verdict in the case was expected "very soon." The defence and prosecution are expected to deliver their closing arguments on Thursday. The case against Griner has highlighted Russia`s fraught relations with the United States, which have plunged to a new post-Cold War low over Moscow`s actions in Ukraine. Blagovolina said Griner heard that Washington had made what Secretary of State Antony Blinken called a "substantial offer" to Moscow to release American citizens held in Russia. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, who had expressed surprise at the public nature of Blinken`s comments at the time, said on Tuesday that any talk of a possible swap needed to be discreet. ALSO READ | Basketball star Brittney Griner appears in Russian court after U.S. makes swap offer "We still believe that any exchanges of information on this topic should be discreet," Peskov told reporters on a conference call. "Megaphone diplomacy and the public exchange of opinions will not lead to results." `THE END IS NEAR` Griner, who appeared in Khimki District Court outside Moscow in a plain khaki T-shirt and round-rimmed glasses, was both focused and nervous as her trial approaches its end, her lawyer said. "She still knows that the end (of her trial) is near and of course she heard the news, so she is hoping that sometime she could be coming home," Blagovolina said. A source said that Washington was willing to exchange convicted arms trafficker Viktor Bout, known as the "Merchant of Death". Blagovolina said a swap was "legally possible" after the verdict, which is expected no later than mid-August. Griner testified last week that she could not understand how the vape cartridges had ended up in her luggage, speculating that she had inadvertently packed them as she rushed to leave. Griner had been her way to join her Russian team, UMMC Ekaterinburg, for the playoffs after spending time at home in the United States.

Two-time Olympic gold medallist Brittney Griner's Russian trial should be over 'very soon', says lawyer

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner returned to stand trial at a Russian court on Tuesday as the United States sought to secure her release with a prisoner swap to help her avoid up to 10 years in jail on drugs charges. Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star, was detained at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport on February&nbsp;17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday, the United States has made a “substantial offer” to Russia for the release of American citizens held in Russia, including Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan. A source said that Washington was willing to exchange convicted arms trafficker Viktor Bout, known as the “Merchant of Death”.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketballer-brittney-griner-treated-injuries-with-medical-cannabis-defence-argues-500806">Basketballer Brittney Griner treated injuries with medical cannabis, defence argues</a>

Russia said that there was no deal yet, and Griner is unlikely to be swapped until there is a verdict, which could happen by mid-August. Griner, 31, has pleaded guilty to the charges against her but has denied that she intended to break Russian law.

Wearing a plain khaki T-shirt and round-rimmed glasses, Griner was ushered in courtroom by police at Khimki District Court outside Moscow.&nbsp;Griner held up personal photographs before taking a seat in the defendant’s cage. The two-time Olympic champion testified last week that she could not understand how the vape cartridges had ended up in her luggage, speculating that she had inadvertently packed them as she rushed to leave.

Griner had been on her way to join her Russian team, UMMC Ekaterinburg, for the playoffs after spending time at home in the United States.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner returned to stand trial at a Russian court on Tuesday as the United States sought to secure her release with a prisoner swap to help her avoid up to 10 years in jail on drugs charges.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner returned to stand trial at a Russian court on Tuesday as the United States sought to secure her release with a prisoner swap to help her avoid up to 10 years in jail on drugs charges. Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star, was detained at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport on February 17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday, the United States has made a “substantial offer” to Russia for the release of American citizens held in Russia, including Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan. A source said that Washington was willing to exchange convicted arms trafficker Viktor Bout, known as the “Merchant of Death”. ALSO READ | Basketballer Brittney Griner treated injuries with medical cannabis, defence argues Russia said that there was no deal yet, and Griner is unlikely to be swapped until there is a verdict, which could happen by mid-August. Griner, 31, has pleaded guilty to the charges against her but has denied that she intended to break Russian law. Wearing a plain khaki T-shirt and round-rimmed glasses, Griner was ushered in courtroom by police at Khimki District Court outside Moscow. Griner held up personal photographs before taking a seat in the defendant’s cage. The two-time Olympic champion testified last week that she could not understand how the vape cartridges had ended up in her luggage, speculating that she had inadvertently packed them as she rushed to leave. Griner had been on her way to join her Russian team, UMMC Ekaterinburg, for the playoffs after spending time at home in the United States.

Basketball star Brittney Griner appears in Russian court after U.S. makes swap offer

Russia said on Thursday that negotiations with the United States on exchanging prisoners are ongoing but there is no deal to swap detained U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner for jailed Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that "so far there are no agreements in this area". 
Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova indicated that talks on prisoner exchanges had been going on for some time but without producing a result. They were responding to comments by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Washington had made Moscow a "serious offer" to secure the release of Griner and former U.S. marine Paul Whelan, also detained in Russia.

"The issue of the mutual exchange of Russian and American citizens in detention on the territory of the two countries was at one time discussed by the presidents of Russia and the United States," Zakharova said, apparently referring to conversations pre-dating Russia`s Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. "They gave instructions to the relevant authorized structures to carry out negotiations. These are being conducted by the competent departments. A concrete result has not yet been achieved."

Negotiations would need to take into account the interests of both sides, she said. Blinken said on Wednesday he would discuss the Griner and Whelan cases with his Russian counterpart in the coming days.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-basketballer-brittney-griner-claims-she-didnt-intend-to-smuggle-drugs-into-russia-501186">US basketballer Brittney Griner claims she didn't intend to smuggle drugs into Russia</a>

"When discussing such topics, you don`t conduct information attacks," Peskov said in an comment that appeared to reflect irritation with Washington`s very public diplomacy on the issue. On Wednesday, a source familiar with the situation confirmed a CNN report that Washington was willing to exchange Russian dealer Bout, who is serving a 25 year-prison sentence in the United States, as part of a deal. 
A Russian lawyer for Whelan has previously said he believed Moscow wanted Bout to be part of a swap for Whelan.

Griner, detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport in February with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage, was in the courtroom on Wednesday in the latest hearing of her trial on drug charges. The next hearing is set for Aug. 2. "From a legal point of view, an exchange is only possible after a court verdict," Griner`s lawyer in Russia, Maria Blagovolina, said in a statement.

Whelan was sentenced in 2020 to 16 years in prison in Russia, accused of spying. He denied spying and said he was set up in a sting operation.

Russia said on Thursday that negotiations with the United States on exchanging prisoners are ongoing but there is no deal to swap detained U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner for jailed Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.

Russia said on Thursday that negotiations with the United States on exchanging prisoners are ongoing but there is no deal to swap detained U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner for jailed Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that "so far there are no agreements in this area". Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova indicated that talks on prisoner exchanges had been going on for some time but without producing a result. They were responding to comments by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Washington had made Moscow a "serious offer" to secure the release of Griner and former U.S. marine Paul Whelan, also detained in Russia. "The issue of the mutual exchange of Russian and American citizens in detention on the territory of the two countries was at one time discussed by the presidents of Russia and the United States," Zakharova said, apparently referring to conversations pre-dating Russia`s Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. "They gave instructions to the relevant authorized structures to carry out negotiations. These are being conducted by the competent departments. A concrete result has not yet been achieved." Negotiations would need to take into account the interests of both sides, she said. Blinken said on Wednesday he would discuss the Griner and Whelan cases with his Russian counterpart in the coming days. ALSO READ | US basketballer Brittney Griner claims she didn't intend to smuggle drugs into Russia "When discussing such topics, you don`t conduct information attacks," Peskov said in an comment that appeared to reflect irritation with Washington`s very public diplomacy on the issue. On Wednesday, a source familiar with the situation confirmed a CNN report that Washington was willing to exchange Russian dealer Bout, who is serving a 25 year-prison sentence in the United States, as part of a deal. A Russian lawyer for Whelan has previously said he believed Moscow wanted Bout to be part of a swap for Whelan. Griner, detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport in February with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage, was in the courtroom on Wednesday in the latest hearing of her trial on drug charges. The next hearing is set for Aug. 2. "From a legal point of view, an exchange is only possible after a court verdict," Griner`s lawyer in Russia, Maria Blagovolina, said in a statement. Whelan was sentenced in 2020 to 16 years in prison in Russia, accused of spying. He denied spying and said he was set up in a sting operation.

Brittney Griner trial: Russia says there is no deal on swapping US basketballer for jailed arms trafficker

US basketball star Brittney&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;said at her trial Wednesday that she had no intention of smuggling drugs into Russia. "I did not think of or plan to bring banned substances into Russia,"&nbsp;Griner, a two-time Olympic basketball gold medallist, told a court in the town of Khimki just outside Moscow.

She&nbsp;was detained at a Moscow airport in February, just days before Moscow launched its offensive in Ukraine.&nbsp;Here are some other quotes from Wednesday`s testimony by U.S. basketball star&nbsp;to a Russian court trying her for possession of drugs, after she was detained at a Moscow airport in February with vape cartridges containing hashish oil.

ON BEING DETAINED AT THE AIRPORT 
The seven years I`ve been coming back and forth to Moscow multiple times, I`ve never seen so many people working that day. There were a lot of custom agents and people behind the scanners that day. It was a little abnormal. I walked through the metal detector. And on the other side, I was instructed to come around and open my bag up.

There were documents that I had to sign. I can only assume that they were about the search and the cartridges. We had to use my phone and Google Translate for him (an official) to be able to tell me a little bit. There was a lady that was there that they said was an interpreter, but it was more just her telling me `surname, sign`. Really short words. She didn`t explain the content of the paper. I didn`t know exactly what I was signing.

No, my rights were never read to me. No one explained any of it to me. At that point, I got on my phone and I contacted my spouse, my sports agent and my club team`s translator.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basketballer-brittney-griner-treated-injuries-with-medical-cannabis-defence-argues-500806">Basketballer Brittney Griner treated injuries with medical cannabis, defence argues</a>

ASKED WHY SHE RETURNED TO RUSSIA IN FEBRUARY 
It`s the most important part of the season, after the break. It`s playoffs. The whole season I worked, my team worked hard to get to a good position. There was nothing that was going to change that for me. I didn`t want to let my team down. I did know about the `do not fly` advisory, but like I said, there was nothing that was going to change my mind on coming back and finishing my duty for my team.

ON USING MEDICAL CANNABIS 
Because of my injuries that I`ve had over the long career of basketball. From my spine, no cartilage in my knee. I was in a wheelchair for four months. I broke my ankle and I also sprained my knee really bad. So I was wheelchair-bound. The benefits from medical cannabis definitely outweigh the painkillers that they prescribe. The painkillers have really bad side effects. Medical cannabis, there are honestly no side effects that harm you.

ON PACKING BEFORE LEAVING FOR RUSSIA 
The medical cannabis that was found in my luggage was my property, purchased in Phoenix. I still don`t understand to this day how they ended up in my bag. If I had to speculate, if I had to guess on how they ended up in my bags, I was in a rush packing. I was recovering from COVID, the stress of packing, making sure I had my COVID tests. Jet lag. And I was in a rush, throwing my stuff into my bag.

In the seven years that I came back and forth (to Russia), I never brought any substance that needed to be declared. And I didn`t plan on bringing any substance when I came on Feb. 17. The rules change everywhere on what you can and can`t bring into the country. And our team is always giving us updates and making sure that we know all the rules for whatever border we`re crossing or country we`re going into.

US basketball star Brittney Griner said at her trial Wednesday that she had no intention of smuggling drugs into Russia. "I did not think of or plan to bring banned substances into Russia," Griner, a two-time Olympic basketball gold medallist, told a court in the town of Khimki just outside Moscow.

US basketball star Brittney Griner said at her trial Wednesday that she had no intention of smuggling drugs into Russia. "I did not think of or plan to bring banned substances into Russia," Griner, a two-time Olympic basketball gold medallist, told a court in the town of Khimki just outside Moscow. She was detained at a Moscow airport in February, just days before Moscow launched its offensive in Ukraine. Here are some other quotes from Wednesday`s testimony by U.S. basketball star to a Russian court trying her for possession of drugs, after she was detained at a Moscow airport in February with vape cartridges containing hashish oil. ON BEING DETAINED AT THE AIRPORT The seven years I`ve been coming back and forth to Moscow multiple times, I`ve never seen so many people working that day. There were a lot of custom agents and people behind the scanners that day. It was a little abnormal. I walked through the metal detector. And on the other side, I was instructed to come around and open my bag up. There were documents that I had to sign. I can only assume that they were about the search and the cartridges. We had to use my phone and Google Translate for him (an official) to be able to tell me a little bit. There was a lady that was there that they said was an interpreter, but it was more just her telling me `surname, sign`. Really short words. She didn`t explain the content of the paper. I didn`t know exactly what I was signing. No, my rights were never read to me. No one explained any of it to me. At that point, I got on my phone and I contacted my spouse, my sports agent and my club team`s translator. ALSO READ | Basketballer Brittney Griner treated injuries with medical cannabis, defence argues ASKED WHY SHE RETURNED TO RUSSIA IN FEBRUARY It`s the most important part of the season, after the break. It`s playoffs. The whole season I worked, my team worked hard to get to a good position. There was nothing that was going to change that for me. I didn`t want to let my team down. I did know about the `do not fly` advisory, but like I said, there was nothing that was going to change my mind on coming back and finishing my duty for my team. ON USING MEDICAL CANNABIS Because of my injuries that I`ve had over the long career of basketball. From my spine, no cartilage in my knee. I was in a wheelchair for four months. I broke my ankle and I also sprained my knee really bad. So I was wheelchair-bound. The benefits from medical cannabis definitely outweigh the painkillers that they prescribe. The painkillers have really bad side effects. Medical cannabis, there are honestly no side effects that harm you. ON PACKING BEFORE LEAVING FOR RUSSIA The medical cannabis that was found in my luggage was my property, purchased in Phoenix. I still don`t understand to this day how they ended up in my bag. If I had to speculate, if I had to guess on how they ended up in my bags, I was in a rush packing. I was recovering from COVID, the stress of packing, making sure I had my COVID tests. Jet lag. And I was in a rush, throwing my stuff into my bag. In the seven years that I came back and forth (to Russia), I never brought any substance that needed to be declared. And I didn`t plan on bringing any substance when I came on Feb. 17. The rules change everywhere on what you can and can`t bring into the country. And our team is always giving us updates and making sure that we know all the rules for whatever border we`re crossing or country we`re going into.

US basketballer Brittney Griner claims she didn't intend to smuggle drugs into Russia

The defence team of U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner, detained in Russia on drug charges, argued in court on Tuesday that she had used medical cannabis to assuage pain from injuries, like many other elite international athletes.

Griner, a Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star who has played in Russia during the league`s offseason, was detained at a Moscow airport on Feb. 17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage. Medical marijuana is illegal in Russia.

She faces a possible jail sentence of up to 10 years in a case that has highlighted the fraught relations between Russia and the United States at a time of heightened tension over Moscow`s military intervention in Ukraine. A narcology expert summoned by the defence argued that medical cannabis was widely used to treat athletes where it was legal, and often had fewer side effects than other painkillers.

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"With the prescription in place, Brittney may have used it for medical but not recreational purposes," said lawyer Maria Blagovolina, partner at Rybalkin, Gortsunyan, Dyakin and Partners law firm. 
Wearing round-rimmed glasses and a black and grey sweatshirt with "Black Lives For Peace" on the back, Griner listened to the proceedings via a translator.

Before taking a seat in the defendant`s cage, she held up a lined sheet of paper with pictures of her two best friends, a teammate and her wife Cherelle wearing her #42 Phoenix Mercury jersey, her WNBA team. 
The two-time Olympic champion, who has appealed to U.S. President Joe Biden to secure her release, has pled guilty but denied she intended to break Russian law.

Griner -- known as "BG" to basketball fans -- will appear in court again on Wednesday, where she could be called upon to testify. A further hearing in the case is scheduled for Aug. 2, Griner`s defence team said. 
U.S. officials and prominent athletes argue the 31-year-old has been wrongly detained and have called for her to be released immediately. The Russian authorities dismiss the U.S. criticism, with the Kremlin saying the case has nothing to do with politics.

The defence team of U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner, detained in Russia on drug charges, argued in court on Tuesday that she had used medical cannabis to assuage pain from injuries, like many other elite international athletes.

The defence team of U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner, detained in Russia on drug charges, argued in court on Tuesday that she had used medical cannabis to assuage pain from injuries, like many other elite international athletes. Griner, a Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star who has played in Russia during the league`s offseason, was detained at a Moscow airport on Feb. 17 with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage. Medical marijuana is illegal in Russia. She faces a possible jail sentence of up to 10 years in a case that has highlighted the fraught relations between Russia and the United States at a time of heightened tension over Moscow`s military intervention in Ukraine. A narcology expert summoned by the defence argued that medical cannabis was widely used to treat athletes where it was legal, and often had fewer side effects than other painkillers. ALSO READ | Sports Ministry asks IOA to grant CWG Village accreditation for boxer Lovlina Borgohain's coach: Sources "With the prescription in place, Brittney may have used it for medical but not recreational purposes," said lawyer Maria Blagovolina, partner at Rybalkin, Gortsunyan, Dyakin and Partners law firm. Wearing round-rimmed glasses and a black and grey sweatshirt with "Black Lives For Peace" on the back, Griner listened to the proceedings via a translator. Before taking a seat in the defendant`s cage, she held up a lined sheet of paper with pictures of her two best friends, a teammate and her wife Cherelle wearing her #42 Phoenix Mercury jersey, her WNBA team. The two-time Olympic champion, who has appealed to U.S. President Joe Biden to secure her release, has pled guilty but denied she intended to break Russian law. Griner -- known as "BG" to basketball fans -- will appear in court again on Wednesday, where she could be called upon to testify. A further hearing in the case is scheduled for Aug. 2, Griner`s defence team said. U.S. officials and prominent athletes argue the 31-year-old has been wrongly detained and have called for her to be released immediately. The Russian authorities dismiss the U.S. criticism, with the Kremlin saying the case has nothing to do with politics.

Basketballer Brittney Griner treated injuries with medical cannabis, defence argues

Lawyers defending U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner told a Russian court on Friday she was prescribed medical cannabis in the United States for a chronic injury, a Reuters journalist at the courtroom reported. 
Griner pled guilty to drugs charges which carry a prison sentence of up to ten years after she was detained at a Moscow airport in February carrying vape cartridges with hashish oil.

The Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star appeared in court wearing a Nirvana t-shirt on Friday for the fourth hearing in the trial. She has said she did not intend to break the law, and U.S. President Joe Biden has said the United States is doing everything it can to secure her release. The Kremlin has downplayed the idea of a prisoner exchange, saying it is premature to discuss the possibility of swapping Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, for a Russian imprisoned in the United States.

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Griner`s defense team submitted documents on Friday to support her case that she did not intend to bring drugs into Russia illegally in the hopes of securing a more lenient sentence. In them, they said Griner suffered from chronic pain and that she had a permit issued in the state of Arizona for the use of medical cannabis.

In a hearing on Thursday, a Russian basketball club director gave evidence in support of Griner, speaking of her "outstanding ability" and "personal contribution to strengthening team spirit." Griner, who plays for the Phoenix Mercury in the United States was scheduled to play for Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg in the off-season - a common move for WNBA players. Griner first played in Russia in the 2014-15 season, and had prior stints in China.

Lawyers defending U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner told a Russian court on Friday she was prescribed medical cannabis in the United States for a chronic injury, a Reuters journalist at the courtroom reported.

Lawyers defending U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner told a Russian court on Friday she was prescribed medical cannabis in the United States for a chronic injury, a Reuters journalist at the courtroom reported. Griner pled guilty to drugs charges which carry a prison sentence of up to ten years after she was detained at a Moscow airport in February carrying vape cartridges with hashish oil. The Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star appeared in court wearing a Nirvana t-shirt on Friday for the fourth hearing in the trial. She has said she did not intend to break the law, and U.S. President Joe Biden has said the United States is doing everything it can to secure her release. The Kremlin has downplayed the idea of a prisoner exchange, saying it is premature to discuss the possibility of swapping Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, for a Russian imprisoned in the United States. ALSO READ | World Athletics Championships to be held in Tokyo in 2025 Griner`s defense team submitted documents on Friday to support her case that she did not intend to bring drugs into Russia illegally in the hopes of securing a more lenient sentence. In them, they said Griner suffered from chronic pain and that she had a permit issued in the state of Arizona for the use of medical cannabis. In a hearing on Thursday, a Russian basketball club director gave evidence in support of Griner, speaking of her "outstanding ability" and "personal contribution to strengthening team spirit." Griner, who plays for the Phoenix Mercury in the United States was scheduled to play for Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg in the off-season - a common move for WNBA players. Griner first played in Russia in the 2014-15 season, and had prior stints in China.

Brittney Griner trail: Lawyers defending basketballer tell Russian court she was prescribed medical cannabis

Two-time US Olympic basketball gold medalist Brittney Griner has pleaded guilty to drug charges in a Russian court. Griner, whom the US State Department has classified as wrongfully detained, faces up to 10 years in prison under the charge.

US basketball star Brittney Griner pleads guilty to drug in Russia

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to a drugs charge in a Russian court on Thursday but denied she had intentionally broken the law. Griner was speaking at the second hearing of her trial on the narcotics charge that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, days after she urged U.S. President Joe Biden to secure her release.

"I`d like to plead guilty, your honour. But there was no intent. I didn`t want to break the law," Griner said, speaking quietly in English which was then translated into Russian for the court. "I`d like to give my testimony later. I need time to prepare," she added. The next court hearing was scheduled for July 14.

Griner`s lawyer Alexander Boykov told reporters they were hoping for the most lenient sentencing possible. The two-time Olympic gold medallist was detained in February at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport with vape cartridges containing hashish oil, which is illegal in Russia, and has been kept in custody since. 
In a handwritten note, she appealed to Biden directly earlier this week to step up U.S. efforts to bring her home.

"I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don`t forget about me and the other American detainees..." Griner wrote. "Please do all you can to bring us home." Biden spoke to Griner`s wife on Wednesday, telling her he was working to have her released "as soon as possible", the White House said. 
U.S. officials and many athletes have called for the release of Griner - or "BG" as she is known to basketball fans - who they say has been wrongfully detained.

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Her case has also prompted concerns that Moscow could use it as leverage to negotiate the release of a high-profile Russian citizen in U.S. custody. Russian authorities say there is no basis to consider Griner`s detention illegal and that the case against her is not political despite Moscow`s fraught relations with United States over the Russian military intervention in Ukraine.

Moscow`s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Thursday that it was difficult to exchange prisoners with the United States and suggested Washington stop talking about the fate of Griner. 
Griner, a centre for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women`s National Basketball Association, had played for UMMC Ekaterinburg in the Russian Women`s Basketball Premier League to boost her income during the WNBA off-season, like several other U.S. players. The Russian foreign ministry has said Griner could appeal her sentence or apply for clemency once a verdict has been delivered.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to a drugs charge in a Russian court on Thursday but denied she had intentionally broken the law. Griner was speaking at the second hearing of her trial on the narcotics charge that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, days after she urged U.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to a drugs charge in a Russian court on Thursday but denied she had intentionally broken the law. Griner was speaking at the second hearing of her trial on the narcotics charge that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison, days after she urged U.S. President Joe Biden to secure her release. "I`d like to plead guilty, your honour. But there was no intent. I didn`t want to break the law," Griner said, speaking quietly in English which was then translated into Russian for the court. "I`d like to give my testimony later. I need time to prepare," she added. The next court hearing was scheduled for July 14. Griner`s lawyer Alexander Boykov told reporters they were hoping for the most lenient sentencing possible. The two-time Olympic gold medallist was detained in February at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo airport with vape cartridges containing hashish oil, which is illegal in Russia, and has been kept in custody since. In a handwritten note, she appealed to Biden directly earlier this week to step up U.S. efforts to bring her home. "I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don`t forget about me and the other American detainees..." Griner wrote. "Please do all you can to bring us home." Biden spoke to Griner`s wife on Wednesday, telling her he was working to have her released "as soon as possible", the White House said. U.S. officials and many athletes have called for the release of Griner - or "BG" as she is known to basketball fans - who they say has been wrongfully detained. ALSO READ | Basketballer Brittney Griner is 'keeping the faith', reveals U.S. Charge d'Affaires Elizabeth Rood Her case has also prompted concerns that Moscow could use it as leverage to negotiate the release of a high-profile Russian citizen in U.S. custody. Russian authorities say there is no basis to consider Griner`s detention illegal and that the case against her is not political despite Moscow`s fraught relations with United States over the Russian military intervention in Ukraine. Moscow`s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Thursday that it was difficult to exchange prisoners with the United States and suggested Washington stop talking about the fate of Griner. Griner, a centre for the Phoenix Mercury in the Women`s National Basketball Association, had played for UMMC Ekaterinburg in the Russian Women`s Basketball Premier League to boost her income during the WNBA off-season, like several other U.S. players. The Russian foreign ministry has said Griner could appeal her sentence or apply for clemency once a verdict has been delivered.

U.S. basketballer Brittney Griner admits Russian drugs charge, denies intent

U.S. WNBA basketball star Brittney Griner has made a direct plea to President Joe Biden to stand up for her in an emotional letter sent to the White House on Monday as she remains detained in Russia on drug charges.

Griner, who was held at a Moscow airport on Feb. 17 when a search of her luggage allegedly revealed multiple cannabis oil vape cartridges, went on trial on Friday and could face up to 10 years in a Russian jail. The case takes place against a backdrop of high tension between Moscow and Washington over the conflict in Ukraine. U.S. officials say Griner has been detained wrongfully.

"As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I`m terrified I might be here forever," she wrote in a letter, excerpts of which have been shared by her representatives. "On the 4th of July, our family normally honors the service of those who fought for our freedom, including my father who is a Vietnam War Veteran. 
"It hurts thinking about how I usually celebrate this day because freedom means something completely different to me this year."

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Griner, who competes in the U.S. Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) but has also played regularly in Russia, was formally told at the first hearing that she was charged with intentionally importing narcotics into Russia. The judge set the next hearing for July 7.

"I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don`t forget about me and the other American Detainees. Please do all you can to bring us home," Griner added. "I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe in you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore. "I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home."

U.S. WNBA basketball star Brittney Griner has made a direct plea to President Joe Biden to stand up for her in an emotional letter sent to the White House on Monday as she remains detained in Russia on drug charges.

U.S. WNBA basketball star Brittney Griner has made a direct plea to President Joe Biden to stand up for her in an emotional letter sent to the White House on Monday as she remains detained in Russia on drug charges. Griner, who was held at a Moscow airport on Feb. 17 when a search of her luggage allegedly revealed multiple cannabis oil vape cartridges, went on trial on Friday and could face up to 10 years in a Russian jail. The case takes place against a backdrop of high tension between Moscow and Washington over the conflict in Ukraine. U.S. officials say Griner has been detained wrongfully. "As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I`m terrified I might be here forever," she wrote in a letter, excerpts of which have been shared by her representatives. "On the 4th of July, our family normally honors the service of those who fought for our freedom, including my father who is a Vietnam War Veteran. "It hurts thinking about how I usually celebrate this day because freedom means something completely different to me this year." ALSO READ | Basketballer Brittney Griner is 'keeping the faith', reveals U.S. Charge d'Affaires Elizabeth Rood Griner, who competes in the U.S. Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA) but has also played regularly in Russia, was formally told at the first hearing that she was charged with intentionally importing narcotics into Russia. The judge set the next hearing for July 7. "I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don`t forget about me and the other American Detainees. Please do all you can to bring us home," Griner added. "I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe in you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore. "I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home."

Basketball star Brittney Griner makes freedom appeal to President Joe Biden

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner told U.S. Charge d`Affaires Elizabeth Rood at her trial in Moscow that she was "keeping the faith," Rood told reporters after attending the opening session of Griner`s trial on narcotics charges. Rood, who attended the session in the Moscow suburb of Xhimki, said she had been able to speak to the WNBA player, who was "as well as can be expected".

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner told U.S. Charge d`Affaires Elizabeth Rood at her trial in Moscow that she was "keeping the faith," Rood told reporters after attending the opening session of Griner`s trial on narcotics charges.

U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner told U.S. Charge d`Affaires Elizabeth Rood at her trial in Moscow that she was "keeping the faith," Rood told reporters after attending the opening session of Griner`s trial on narcotics charges. Rood, who attended the session in the Moscow suburb of Xhimki, said she had been able to speak to the WNBA player, who was "as well as can be expected".

Basketballer Brittney Griner is 'keeping the faith', reveals U.S. Charge d'Affaires Elizabeth Rood

U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner goes on trial in Russia on Friday on drug charges that could see her face up to 10 years in prison, in a case caught up in the fraught relations between Moscow and Washington. 
Griner, a star in the U.S.-based Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA), was detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo Airport on Feb. 17, just days before Russia invaded Ukraine, unleashing a broader confrontation with the West.

Russian authorities said the 31-year-old athlete was carrying vape cartridges containing hashish oil, a substance illegal in the country. She was charged with smuggling a large quantity of drugs, an offence that can carry up to 10 years in prison. U.S. officials and a score of athletes have called for the release of Griner - or "BG" as she is known to basketball fans. They say she has been wrongfully detained and should be immediately returned to her family in the United States.

Griner`s detention also prompted concerns that Moscow could use the two-time Olympic gold medallist to negotiate the release of a high-profile Russian in U.S. custody. Griner`s wife, Cherelle Griner, told CNN in an interview on Thursday evening that she was hoping for a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden. 
"I would love for him to tell me he cares," Cherelle Griner said.

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The U.S. government has warned citizens against travelling to Russia in light of the "potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials". The Kremlin has said that Griner violated Russian laws and denied she was being held hostage amid Russia`s stand-off with the United States.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last week there was "no higher priority" than bringing home Griner and other Americans "illegally detained" abroad. Griner plays centre for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA and is a seven-time WNBA All-Star.

For years, Griner played for UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia during the WNBA off-season, like several other U.S. players offered lucrative contracts by the Russian Women`s Basketball Premier League. 
Griner`s detention, combined with Russia`s military intervention in Ukraine, prompted several foreign players to leave the Russian league.

U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner goes on trial in Russia on Friday on drug charges that could see her face up to 10 years in prison, in a case caught up in the fraught relations between Moscow and Washington.

U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner goes on trial in Russia on Friday on drug charges that could see her face up to 10 years in prison, in a case caught up in the fraught relations between Moscow and Washington. Griner, a star in the U.S.-based Women`s National Basketball Association (WNBA), was detained at Moscow`s Sheremetyevo Airport on Feb. 17, just days before Russia invaded Ukraine, unleashing a broader confrontation with the West. Russian authorities said the 31-year-old athlete was carrying vape cartridges containing hashish oil, a substance illegal in the country. She was charged with smuggling a large quantity of drugs, an offence that can carry up to 10 years in prison. U.S. officials and a score of athletes have called for the release of Griner - or "BG" as she is known to basketball fans. They say she has been wrongfully detained and should be immediately returned to her family in the United States. Griner`s detention also prompted concerns that Moscow could use the two-time Olympic gold medallist to negotiate the release of a high-profile Russian in U.S. custody. Griner`s wife, Cherelle Griner, told CNN in an interview on Thursday evening that she was hoping for a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden. "I would love for him to tell me he cares," Cherelle Griner said. ALSO READ | FIFA retracts suspension of Pakistan Football Federation The U.S. government has warned citizens against travelling to Russia in light of the "potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials". The Kremlin has said that Griner violated Russian laws and denied she was being held hostage amid Russia`s stand-off with the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last week there was "no higher priority" than bringing home Griner and other Americans "illegally detained" abroad. Griner plays centre for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA and is a seven-time WNBA All-Star. For years, Griner played for UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia during the WNBA off-season, like several other U.S. players offered lucrative contracts by the Russian Women`s Basketball Premier League. Griner`s detention, combined with Russia`s military intervention in Ukraine, prompted several foreign players to leave the Russian league.

Russia opens trial vs U.S. basketballer Brittney Griner

Andrew Wiggins scored 26 points as the Golden State Warriors battled past the Boston Celtics 104-94 to move within one win of a seventh&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;championship crown on Monday.

With Stephen Curry having a rare off-night after his 43-point game four heroics, Wiggins seized control to lead a balanced Golden State offensive effort which leaves the Warriors 3-2 up in the best-of-seven series. Wiggins delivered a huge performance at both ends of the Warriors' Chase Center court, shooting 12-of-23&nbsp;while hauling in 13 rebounds with two steals and a block.

The Warriors can clinch the championship when the series heads back to Boston for game six on Thursday. "We have two cracks at getting one win, but we also know how difficult it's going to be," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. "Nobody's celebrating but we are excited to be in this spot and we want to take advantage of it."

Kerr led the tributes for Wiggins, the Canadian former No.1 draft pick who has steadily become an integral part of the Warriors set-up since joining the franchise two years ago. "He loves the challenge. He loves the competition. And&nbsp;he's found such a crucial role on our team, and I think that empowers him," Kerr said. "He knows how much we need him, so he's been fantastic."

Wiggins led the Warriors scorers while Klay Thompson provided support with 21 points including five three-pointers. Gary Payton II (15 points) and Jordan Poole (14) both made double-digits from the bench.

Curry, the Warriors' talisman and front-runner for&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Finals MVP, chipped in with 16 points but shot only 7-of-22 from the field, going 0/9 from three-point distance. It was the first time in Curry's playoff career he has failed to score a three-pointer and the first time he has drawn a blank from beyond the arc in any&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;game since 2018.

"I think Steph was probably due for a game like this," Kerr said. "But we've got a lot of talent and a lot of depth that can make up for that, and the guys did a good job of that tonight."

Warriors star Draymond Green, who had an improved performance despite fouling out in the fourth quarter, said Curry's display was good news for Golden State. "He's going to be livid going into game six, and that's exactly what we need," Green said.

Andrew Wiggins scored 26 points as the Golden State Warriors battled past the Boston Celtics 104-94 to move within one win of a seventh NBA championship crown on Monday.

Andrew Wiggins scored 26 points as the Golden State Warriors battled past the Boston Celtics 104-94 to move within one win of a seventh NBA championship crown on Monday. With Stephen Curry having a rare off-night after his 43-point game four heroics, Wiggins seized control to lead a balanced Golden State offensive effort which leaves the Warriors 3-2 up in the best-of-seven series. Wiggins delivered a huge performance at both ends of the Warriors' Chase Center court, shooting 12-of-23 while hauling in 13 rebounds with two steals and a block. The Warriors can clinch the championship when the series heads back to Boston for game six on Thursday. "We have two cracks at getting one win, but we also know how difficult it's going to be," Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. "Nobody's celebrating but we are excited to be in this spot and we want to take advantage of it." Kerr led the tributes for Wiggins, the Canadian former No.1 draft pick who has steadily become an integral part of the Warriors set-up since joining the franchise two years ago. "He loves the challenge. He loves the competition. And he's found such a crucial role on our team, and I think that empowers him," Kerr said. "He knows how much we need him, so he's been fantastic." Wiggins led the Warriors scorers while Klay Thompson provided support with 21 points including five three-pointers. Gary Payton II (15 points) and Jordan Poole (14) both made double-digits from the bench. Curry, the Warriors' talisman and front-runner for NBA Finals MVP, chipped in with 16 points but shot only 7-of-22 from the field, going 0/9 from three-point distance. It was the first time in Curry's playoff career he has failed to score a three-pointer and the first time he has drawn a blank from beyond the arc in any NBA game since 2018. "I think Steph was probably due for a game like this," Kerr said. "But we've got a lot of talent and a lot of depth that can make up for that, and the guys did a good job of that tonight." Warriors star Draymond Green, who had an improved performance despite fouling out in the fourth quarter, said Curry's display was good news for Golden State. "He's going to be livid going into game six, and that's exactly what we need," Green said.

Golden State Warriors on verge of NBA title as Andrew Wiggins' 26 points punishes Boston Celtics

Jaylen Brown scored 27 points and Jayson Tatum added 26 to propel the Boston Celtics to a 116-100 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday and a 2-1 lead in the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Finals. Marcus Smart added 24 points for the Celtics, who led by as many as 18 in the first half at TD Garden.

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They weathered another third-quarter surge from the Warriors, who briefly took a one-point lead only for the Celtics to pull away late for the convincing win. Boston, seeking a record 18th&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;title, host game four of the best-of-seven series on Friday.

Jaylen Brown scored 27 points and Jayson Tatum added 26 to propel the Boston Celtics to a 116-100 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday and a 2-1 lead in the NBA Finals.

Jaylen Brown scored 27 points and Jayson Tatum added 26 to propel the Boston Celtics to a 116-100 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday and a 2-1 lead in the NBA Finals. Marcus Smart added 24 points for the Celtics, who led by as many as 18 in the first half at TD Garden. ALSO READ | Columbian cyclist wins race, celebrations cut-short after he crashes into his wife - WATCH They weathered another third-quarter surge from the Warriors, who briefly took a one-point lead only for the Celtics to pull away late for the convincing win. Boston, seeking a record 18th NBA title, host game four of the best-of-seven series on Friday.

Boston Celtics beat Golden State Warriors, take 2-1 lead in NBA Finals

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