Israeli-American backpacker eventually pardoned by Putin gives interview as US basketball player Brittney Griner suffers similar ordeal: 'I know what she’s going through'

US president's conversation with Cherelle Griner follows detained basketball player's personal appeal to White House; spouse 'grateful' for outreach, but will maintain pressure

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Brittney Griner, 31, was arrested on February 17 on charges of possessing cannabis oil while returning to play for her Russian team

Arrest last month of WNBA's Brittney Griner only announced Sunday; Ekaterinburg player had cannabis oil in luggage, Russia says, potentially putting her in prison for 10 years