Former NBA star Dennis Rodman claims he will travel to Russia to seek the release of American Britney Griner, currently imprisoned.
Earlier this month, 31-year-old Griner was sentenced to nine years imprisonment in Russia on drug charges.
Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medallist and a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) star, was arrested in mid-February as she arrived to play in Russia during the WNBA offseason.
Her case threw the Texan into the geopolitical maelstrom triggered when President Vladimir Putin sent troops into Ukraine, propelling US-Russian relations to a new post-Cold War low.
Rodman, 61, who has in the past made headlines for his friendship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, states he has obtained permission to travel to Russia, which is currently advised against by the US State Department.
He also referred to Russian President Vladimir Putin as "cool" back in 2014.
"I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman told NBC. "I'm trying to go this week."
"I know Putin too well."
This would not be the first time Rodman would be involved in the release of an American prisoner in foreign territory, after being credited for helping free Kenneth Bae from North Korea in 2014.
Rodman won five NBA titles in his playing career, and was twice named as an NBA All-Star.
