When Russia invaded Ukraine, basketball was far from what was top of mind. The first priority in the basketball world was getting players out of Ukraine safely. Now, as the war in Ukraine continues, several players have found themselves struggling to get free of their contract with Russian clubs.

Despite asking for releases, there are many documented refusals by Russian clubs to allow players to leave. At this point, it appears several cases are headed for arbitration through legal means.

In some cases, players have been able to work buyouts, but others have been told that the club will not entertain buyout talks. Players are unable to change teams unless they receive a Letter of Clearance from FIBA stating they are no longer under any contractual obligations.