In a shocking and emotional new interview, WNBA star Brittney Griner has revealed deeply disturbing details of her time in Russian custody, describing how she was violated, humiliated, and stripped of basic dignity during her nearly 10-month imprisonment in 2022. The two-time Olympic gold medalist and Phoenix Mercury center opened up about the physical and psychological trauma she endured — including moments where she says she was forced to undress and be searched in front of male guards.

“They Watched Everything…”

Speaking candidly in an exclusive sit-down with 60 Minutes, Griner recalled one of the most traumatic moments she faced during her incarceration:

“I had to strip completely naked while they stood there and watched. Men. Not women. There was no privacy. No respect. No humanity.”

The basketball star paused, visibly shaken, before continuing:

“It wasn’t just once. It was routine. It was meant to break you down — and it did. I’ve never felt so exposed, so powerless.”

Griner’s revelation adds a horrifying layer to what was already a highly publicized international incident that drew criticism from human rights organizations and sparked political tension between the United States and Russia.

Wrongfully Detained, Repeatedly Violated

Brittney Griner was arrested at a Moscow airport in February 2022 after Russian authorities claimed she was carrying vape cartridges containing cannabis oil. Despite global outcry and clear signs of political motivation behind her detention, Griner was sentenced to nine years in a penal colony — a form of punishment notorious for its brutality and lack of transparency.

While the world watched and waited, few understood the day-to-day degradation Griner experienced behind closed doors. Now, she’s breaking her silence to shed light on the inhumane treatment she — and likely many others — endured.

“They didn’t see me as an athlete or even a person,” she said. “To them, I was a bargaining chip — and a prisoner they could do anything to.”

Psychological Warfare and Isolation

Griner says the worst part of the experience wasn’t just the physical violation, but the psychological warfare she faced daily.

“They kept the lights on at night. I wasn’t allowed to write or call when I needed to. There were days I didn’t know if I’d ever go home. Every noise, every footstep in the hall — I thought they were coming to take me somewhere worse.”

She also described complete isolation, being kept from other women in the colony and forbidden from engaging in any real communication with inmates.

“I went days without hearing English. I stopped dreaming after a while. You don’t know what that does to a person.”

Global Reaction and Renewed Outrage

Griner’s revelations have reignited outrage around the world, especially among athletes, activists, and political leaders who are calling for a deeper investigation into Russia’s treatment of foreign detainees and female prisoners.

Amnesty International released a statement following the interview:

“These are not just violations of personal dignity — they are violations of international human rights law. Brittney Griner’s story is tragically not unique. We demand full accountability for those responsible.”

WNBA players and NBA stars alike have expressed solidarity. LeBron James, who had previously advocated for her release, posted:

“What Brittney went through is beyond unacceptable. Proud of her strength. We stand with you always.”

A New Mission: Speak for the Silenced

Since her return to the U.S. in December 2022 through a high-stakes prisoner exchange, Griner has gradually resumed her basketball career, even making an emotional return to the court in 2023. But now, she says, advocacy is just as important as basketball.

“I’m not telling my story for sympathy,” she said. “I’m telling it because there are thousands of women locked up, being treated like animals — and they don’t have a platform like I do.”

She plans to launch a foundation in late 2025 aimed at supporting female prisoners, advocating for prison reform, and providing legal assistance for Americans detained abroad.

Looking Ahead

Though she’s back home, Brittney Griner admits that the scars of her imprisonment will never fully heal.

“I wake up sometimes thinking I’m still there. But every day I breathe free air, I remind myself that I made it through — and I won’t stay silent about what happened.”

Her bravery in telling her story has once again positioned her not only as a world-class athlete but as a powerful voice for justice.