Other than a rough outline, few details are known about her case,  feeding speculation that the Putin regime arrested Griner to use her as  leverage.

Among the scenarios that have been discussed, one potential deal would  see Griner exchanged for a Russian national imprisoned in the U.S.

notorious convicted arms dealer Viktor Bout, also known as the "Merchant of Death."

Russia's official Tass media has reported on a Bout-for-Griner exchange,  saying that an official source had confirmed such discussions were  taking place

Like many WNBA players, Griner plays in overseas leagues during the U.S.  league's offseason, earning far more than her WNBA salary.

Like many WNBA players, Griner plays in overseas leagues during the U.S.  league's offseason, earning far more than her WNBA salary.

In recent years, she has played for UMMC Ekaterinburg, a Russian team owned by oligarch Iskander Makhmudov

The team has had longstanding ties to Griner's U.S. club.