Jailed American basketball star Brittney Griner will formally appeal her conviction and sentencing on drug smuggling charges in Russia on Tuesday.
Women's National Basketball Association player Brittney Griner leaves the courtroom after the verdict in Khimki, outside Moscow, on Aug. 4. A Russian court found Griner guilty of smuggling and storing narcotics.
Griner will observe Tuesday's Moscow court hearing by video feed from the women's detention center where she is being held outside the Russian capital. According to a statement released by Griner's legal team, the judge's verdict on her appeal is expected the same day — with Griner holding out hope for a reduction in her prison term.
In court, Griner admitted to mistakenly packing two vape cartridges in her rush to pack her luggage — but provided documents that showed the oil was legally prescribed by her U.S. doctor for pain management. She also never failed a drug test. White House officials also maintain that Griner's freedom is an administration priority and repeatedly encouraged Moscow to take the deal or propose a serious counteroffer.