Who Is Brittney Griner’s Estranged Wife? What to Know About Cherelle Griner

In a significant development for WNBA star Brittney Griner, she has filed for divorce from her wife, Cherelle Griner, after eight years of marriage. The divorce papers, submitted on July 30, 2026, cite that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” The couple, who married in June 2018, have weathered numerous challenges together, including a tumultuous period marked by Brittney’s detention in Russia.

The couple first met at Baylor University while they were both students. Brittney, who graduated in 2013, and Cherelle, who completed her degree in political science in 2014, began dating shortly after. Their relationship blossomed during their college years, with Brittney recalling their first encounter fondly and celebrating their anniversary on social media in 2020.

In 2018, after several years of dating, Brittney proposed to Cherelle, and they officially tied the knot later that year. While they enjoyed some blissful moments, the marriage faced severe strain after Brittney’s arrest in Russia in February 2022. She had been caught with vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, leading to her imprisonment. In August 2022, she received a nine-and-a-half-year sentence, sending shockwaves through the sports community and beyond.

Cherelle emerged as a vocal advocate for Brittney during this difficult time, calling on government officials, including President Joe Biden, to intervene and secure her release. This advocacy extended to public appearances, where Cherelle shared updates about their communications while Brittney was incarcerated, including letters exchanged between the two. Cherelle’s emotional statements highlighted the gravity of the situation, indicating a resolve to remain strong for Brittney’s return.

Eventually, after months of efforts, Brittney was released on December 8, 2022, as part of a prisoner swap negotiated by the Biden administration. Cherelle expressed overwhelming gratitude for her wife’s return, reflecting on the emotional toll of their separation. The couple reunited amid widespread media coverage and attended several public events together thereafter, including a notable appearance at the 2023 Met Gala.

In July 2024, Brittney and Cherelle welcomed their son, Bash. This new chapter seemed to infuse their life with joy, with Brittney sharing her excitement over becoming a parent and expressing her desire to be called “pops” instead of “mom.” The family dynamic appeared strong, and their experiences together seemed to have underscored their bond.

However, this latest divorce filing indicates a dramatic turn in their relationship. According to statements in the court documents, the couple had separated as of July 24, 2026. As part of the divorce proceedings, Brittney is seeking joint legal custody of their son, Bash, further complicating the emotional landscape already marked by their marital dissolution.

As the news settles, the focus now shifts to both individuals as they navigate this difficult transition. Cherelle, who has established herself as a lawyer after graduating from North Carolina Central University School of Law in May 2022, continues her professional journey at Slaton Roebuck PLLC. Brittney remains a prominent figure in women’s basketball, representing the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA.

The announcement of the divorce not only marks the end of a significant chapter in their lives but also raises important questions about the complexities couples face, especially when public life and personal challenges intersect. As they move forward separately, many will be keen to see how both Brittney and Cherelle embrace this new phase in their lives.