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Griner, 31, is a two-time Olympic champion and star player in
the Women's National Basketball Association (WBNA). Earlier this
month she convicted by a Russian court and given a nine-year
sentence on drug charges.
U.S. President Joe Biden has condemned the verdict, calling it
"unacceptable." The United States has offered to exchange her
for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer serving a 25-year prison
sentence in the United States.
Rodman told NBC News on Saturday that he plans to visit Russia
to seek Griner's release.
"I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman
said. "I'm trying to go this week." The NBC story did not
explain who he received permission from.
A senior administration official, who asked to remain anonymous,
made clear the White House does not approve.
"It is public information that the administration has made a
significant offer to the Russians and anything other than
negotiating further through the established channel is likely to
complicate and hinder release efforts," the official said.
The official also noted the State Department has issued a travel
advisory warning Americans not to travel to Russia.
Rodman has sought to inject himself into international diplomacy
in the past. He is one of a handful of Westerners to have met
North Korean head of state Kim Jong Un.
(Reporting By Steve Holland; Editing by Josie Kao)
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