Summary (tl;dr)

WNBA star Brittney Griner has filed for divorce from her wife, Cherelle Griner, after eight years of marriage, citing their union as "irretrievably broken."

Essential Background

Brittney Griner is a prominent WNBA player whose marriage to Cherelle Griner gained significant public attention, particularly when Cherelle became a vocal advocate for Brittney's release after she was detained and imprisoned in Russia in February 2022 on drug smuggling charges. Brittney was ultimately released in December 2022 as part of a prisoner exchange. The couple married in June 2018 and share a two-year-old son, Bash.

The Full Story

Brittney Griner filed for divorce from Cherelle Griner on Thursday, July 30, 2026, in Fulton County, Georgia. Court documents state that the couple separated on July 24, 2026, and Brittney Griner described their eight-year marriage as "irretrievably broken," indicating no hope for reconciliation. She is seeking joint physical custody of their son, Bash, and child support in line with Georgia guidelines. This marks Griner's second divorce, with her previous brief marriage to fellow WNBA player Glory Johnson also resurfacing in public discussion.

Why It Matters

The divorce is trending due to significant public interest in Brittney Griner's personal life, especially following the widespread attention garnered during her detainment in Russia and Cherelle's prominent advocacy for her release. The news comes less than four years after Griner's highly publicized return to the U.S. and her emotional reunion with Cherelle, prompting concern and discussion among fans who admired their public display of support during a challenging period.

Geographic Location

• Fulton County, Georgia, United States (divorce filing)