The Unbreakable Bond: 5 Key Facts About Brittney Griner's Wife, Cherelle Griner, And Their New Family
The question of who Brittney Griner's husband is has an answer rooted in resilience, unwavering support, and a very recent, joyous milestone. As of December 2025, WNBA star Brittney Griner is married to Cherelle Griner (née Watson), a lawyer and former teacher who gained international recognition for her fierce advocacy during Brittney's 10-month detention in Russia. Their relationship, which began as a college romance at Baylor University, has become a powerful symbol of enduring love, culminating in the birth of their first child in the summer of 2024.
Cherelle Griner is more than just the spouse of a basketball icon; she is a professional in her own right and the anchor of the Griner family. The couple’s journey, which includes a high-profile international crisis and the recent expansion of their family with the arrival of their son, Bash, offers a compelling look at the personal life behind the WNBA superstar.
Cherelle Griner: A Complete Biography and Profile
Cherelle Griner, born Cherelle Watson, has established a successful career and a public profile defined by her dedication to her family and her legal expertise. Her life story is one of academic achievement, professional drive, and deep commitment to her wife.
- Full Name: Cherelle Griner (née Watson)
- Date of Birth: March 15, 1993
- Place of Birth: Houston, Texas
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government from Baylor University; Juris Doctor (J.D.) from North Carolina Central University School of Law.
- Profession: Lawyer, Teacher
- Spouse: Brittney Griner (Married June 2019)
- Children: Son, Bash Griner (Born July 2024)
- Notable Role: Leading advocate for Brittney Griner's release from Russian detention in 2022.
The Journey of Brittney and Cherelle: From Baylor to Baby Bash
The relationship between Brittney Griner and Cherelle Griner is a central narrative in Brittney’s life, marked by shared history, a period of separation, and a strong, public reunion. Their commitment to each other has been tested and strengthened by extraordinary circumstances.
A College Connection and Second Chance Romance
Brittney and Cherelle first met while they were both students at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Brittney was a dominant force on the Lady Bears basketball team, while Cherelle was pursuing her degree in Political Science. Although they knew each other during their college years, their romantic relationship did not begin until years later.
The couple reconnected and began dating in 2016. Their relationship quickly deepened, leading to an engagement in August 2018. They officially tied the knot in June 2019, celebrating their wedding in a private ceremony.
The Advocate and the Crisis
Cherelle Griner was thrust into the international spotlight in February 2022 when Brittney Griner was detained in Russia on drug charges. During the 10-month ordeal, Cherelle became the primary public voice and advocate for her wife’s release. She worked tirelessly, engaging with the U.S. government, media outlets, and the public to keep Brittney’s case at the forefront of national attention.
Her advocacy, characterized by emotional pleas and steadfast determination, was instrumental in the diplomatic efforts that ultimately secured Brittney’s return to the United States in December 2022. Cherelle’s unwavering support during this period cemented their public image as a couple whose bond could withstand the highest pressures.
The Newest Addition: Son Bash Griner
In a joyous update that marked a new chapter for the couple, Brittney and Cherelle Griner announced in April 2024 that they were expecting their first child. The couple welcomed their son, Bash Griner, in July 2024.
This milestone represents a significant and positive step forward for the family following the intense emotional challenges of the previous years. The arrival of Bash has shifted the focus from past trauma to future happiness, solidifying the couple's commitment to building a life together.
Brittney Griner's Previous Marriage to Glory Johnson
Before her marriage to Cherelle, Brittney Griner was briefly married to fellow WNBA player Glory Johnson. This relationship was notably short-lived and turbulent, ending in a high-profile divorce.
The Short-Lived and Tumultuous Union
Brittney Griner and Glory Johnson were married in May 2015. However, their union was plagued by conflict almost immediately. Just weeks before their wedding, both players were arrested on charges of assault and battery following a domestic dispute at their home in Arizona.
The marriage lasted only 28 days. Griner filed for an annulment shortly after Johnson announced she was pregnant with twins conceived via IVF. Griner claimed she sought the annulment on the grounds of fraud and duress, alleging Johnson used threats to force her into the marriage.
The Divorce Proceedings
The divorce proceedings were contentious. A judge ultimately denied Griner's request for an annulment but granted the divorce. Furthermore, a court dealt a blow to Glory Johnson's financial requests, denying her attempt to receive spousal support (alimony) and car payments from Brittney Griner, a significant point of contention in the proceedings.
The marriage to Glory Johnson ended in 2016, marking a difficult period in Brittney Griner’s personal life. The subsequent relationship with Cherelle Griner provided the stability and support that had been missing in her previous union.
Topical Authority: Cherelle Griner’s Professional Life and Advocacy
Cherelle Griner’s identity is strongly tied to her professional background and her role during Brittney’s international crisis. Her education at Baylor University and North Carolina Central University School of Law prepared her for a career in law and teaching.
Her legal background was particularly relevant during Brittney’s detention. Her ability to understand the complexities of legal and political systems, combined with her deep personal stake, allowed her to navigate the challenging landscape of international diplomacy and public relations. She effectively leveraged her platform to communicate the urgency of Brittney’s situation, becoming a respected voice among political figures and human rights advocates.
Today, Cherelle continues to balance her professional endeavors with her role as a wife and new mother, supporting Brittney Griner as she continues her career with the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA. Their family story is a testament to overcoming adversity and the strength found in a supportive, loving partnership.
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