Dennis Rodman says going to Russia to help bring home imprisoned WNBA star Griner

Former NBA star Dennis Rodman said he plans on visiting Russia to help free WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was sentenced earlier this month to nine years in prison for drug smuggling.

"I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl," Rodman told NBC News on Saturday. "I'm trying to go this week."

A senior Biden administration official said Rodman, who is known for his relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, is more likely to hurt than help bring home Griner.

"It’s 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, likely referring to a reported, potential prisoner swap. 

Rodman expressed confidence in his understanding of Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

"I know Putin too well," he said.