Brittney Griner is dealing with a major change away from the basketball court during her first season with the Connecticut Sun. The veteran WNBA center has filed for divorce from her wife, Cherelle Griner, after approximately eight years of marriage.
The filing comes as Griner continues navigating the 2026 season with a new franchise following 11 years with the Phoenix Mercury and one season with the Atlanta Dream. While the 35-year-old remains focused on her professional career, the personal development has drawn significant attention because Cherelle became one of the most recognizable advocates in sports during Griner’s detention in Russia.
Neither Brittney nor Cherelle has publicly explained what led to the separation.
Brittney Griner Files for Divorce From Cherelle
Griner filed for divorce Thursday, July 30, in Fulton County, Georgia, according to court records cited by multiple outlets.
The filing reportedly describes the marriage as “irretrievably broken” and lists July 24 as the couple’s official separation date. Griner is also seeking joint legal custody of their 2-year-old son, Bash.
Brittney and Cherelle met while attending Baylor University and married in June 2018. They welcomed Bash in July 2024.
No additional details surrounding the separation have been made public.
The news comes only weeks after Griner shared a birthday tribute praising Cherelle as a mother and spouse, making the divorce filing an unexpected development for those who followed the couple publicly.
Cherelle Supported Griner During Russian Detention
The couple’s relationship received worldwide attention in 2022 when Griner was detained in Russia after authorities said cannabis oil was discovered in her luggage.
Griner was later convicted and sentenced to nine years in prison. She spent nearly 10 months in Russian custody before returning to the United States in December 2022 through a prisoner exchange.
Throughout that ordeal, Cherelle repeatedly advocated for her wife’s release. She made public appearances, participated in interviews and called on government officials to continue working to bring Griner home.
The two appeared together publicly after Griner’s return and later began building their family.
Griner Continues First Season With Connecticut Sun
The divorce filing arrives during a transitional year in Griner’s basketball career.
After spending her first 11 WNBA seasons with Phoenix and playing for Atlanta in 2025, Griner signed with Connecticut before the 2026 campaign. The 10-time All-Star reportedly agreed to a seven-figure deal with the Sun.
Griner is averaging 12.8 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists this season, although injuries have limited her availability.
The Sun center has not publicly commented on the divorce filing. For now, the court documents represent the only official explanation, with Griner maintaining that the marriage can no longer be repaired.
