Brittney Griner's defense has presented a doctor's letter in Russian court that recommended she use cannabis for pain, per HuffPost.
Trial for Griner continued on Friday (July 15) with her legal team arguing for a lighter sentence on good character as the WNBA star could face up to 10 years in prison.
“The attending physician gave Brittney recommendations for the use of medical cannabis. The permission was issued on behalf of the Arizona Department of Health,” lawyer Maria Blagovolina said as the doctor's note was presented in court.
Last week, Griner pleaded guilty to drug charges after admitting that she brought vape cartridges with cannabis oil into the country.
The Phoenix Mercury guard said she had accidentally packed the cartridges in her bag and didn't intend to break Russian law.
"I was in a rush packing and the cartridges accidentally ended up in my bags," she said.
Griner has been held in Russian custody since February 17 following authorities finding the cannabis at a Moscow airport.
Lawyers for the pro basketball player say they're focusing their efforts on highlighting Griner's accountability for her actions and positive contributions to the country through the Russian basketball league.
The director and captain of UMMC Ektaerinburg, the team Griner plays for during the WNBA offseason, testified in her defense on Thursday (July 14).
“In the hearings yesterday and today what became very clear is the tremendous amount of respect and admiration both in the United States and here in Russia where Miss Griner has been playing basketball for seven years, not only for her professional achievements but for her character and integrity,” U.S. Embassy charge d’affaires Elizabeth Rood said outside a Moscow courthouse.
Griner's next hearing is scheduled for July 26.
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