WNBA star Brittney Griner apologized to a Russian court as prosecutors sought a 9 1/2 year prison sentence for her.

Russian prosecutor Nikolai Vlasenko asked the court to sentence her to 9 1/2 years in prison, in addition to a 1million ruble fine ($16,700).

Russian prosecutor Nikolai Vlasenko on Thursday also asked the court for a one million ruble fine ($16,700).

Griner, 31, was caught with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in a Moscow airport after flying home from playing basketball for a club in Yekaterinburg.

An emotional Griner apologized in court.

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‘I want to apologize to my teammates, my club, my fans and the city of (Yekaterinburg) for my mistake that I made and the embarrassment that I brought on them,’ Griner stated. ‘I want to also apologize to my parents, my siblings, the Phoenix Mercury organization back at home, the amazing women of the WNBA, and my amazing spouse back at home.’

Griner’s lawyer, Maria Blagovolina, argued that the she only used the cartridges in Arizona, where she plays for Phoenix Mercury.

Medical marijuana is legal in Arizona, and Griner was prescribed the drug to treat her chronic pain.

Blagovolina also argued that Griner forgot the cartridges were packed in her luggage after dealing with a long flight and the aftermath of COVID-19.

The judge is expected to issue an unusually swift verdict on the case later today.

This is a breaking story, check back for updates…

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