Brittney Griner released in prisoner swap for Russian arms dealer

WNBA star Brittney Griner has been freed in a prisoner swap between the U.S. and Russia and is in the custody of U.S. officials, President Biden said Thursday.

Driving the news: In exchange for Griner, the U.S. has freed convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, according to multiple media reports.

"Moments ago I spoke to Brittney Griner. She is safe. She is on a plane. She is one her way home," Biden tweeted Thursday, alongside photos of Griner's wife, Cherelle Griner.

Catch up quick: Griner was arrested in February after Russian authorities said they found a vape cartridge with hashish oil in her luggage.

Griner pleaded guilty to the charges in early July but maintained that she had "no intent" to break the law. Her defense team later provided a letter showing her doctor in the U.S. had prescribed her medical cannabis two years ago for chronic pain.

Griner was sentenced to nine years in prison and transferred to a penal colony last month.