Brittney Griner discusses dehumanizing Russian prison conditions, including huge blood stain and spider nests

WNBA star Brittney Griner shares harrowing details of her 10-month incarceration in Russian prisons, including dehumanizing conditions and survival tactics.

Anna Lazarus Caplan, a writer-reporter for PEOPLE since 2022, has a rich history of contributing to various publications such as the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, The Dallas Morning News, and Eater.

Brittney Griner, a WNBA star, recently shared her harrowing experience of spending 10 months in two Russian prisons. In an interview with ABC's Robin Roberts on 20/20, Griner recounted the "dehumanizing" conditions she endured, including having to cut her signature dreadlocks and sleep with her feet protruding through the cell bars. Despite these seemingly minor sacrifices, Griner faced more horrific moments during her time behind bars.

Describing the conditions in the prison, Griner mentioned a blood-stained mattress, thin sheets, and the challenge of sleeping with her feet exposed through the bars. The lack of basic necessities like toilet paper and expired toothpaste added to the horror of her experience at Correctional Colony No. 1, also known as IK-1.

Griner highlighted the importance of her Russian cellmate, Alena, in helping her navigate the difficult circumstances. Alena's translation skills and support were crucial for Griner's survival during her time in prison.

After a trial 134 days into her detainment, Griner was sentenced to nine years in a labor camp at IK-2. The conditions at the camp were equally harsh, with Griner recalling spiders nesting above her bed and enduring freezing temperatures that forced her to cut her dreadlocks for survival.

In her upcoming memoir, "Coming Home," Griner plans to share the raw and emotional details of her experience in Russia, as well as the support she received from the global #WeAreBG movement during that challenging time.

Griner's detainment began on Feb. 17, 2022, following her arrest on drug smuggling charges related to vape cartridges containing hash oil.

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