On the court, Brittney Griner has been a steady presence for the Connecticut Sun, averaging 13.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game this season. But off the hardwood, her personal life is in turmoil as her divorce from estranged wife Cherelle Griner turns increasingly contentious.
The 35-year-old WNBA star and Cherelle, a 34-year-old lawyer, have been locked in a legal battle since filing for divorce over the summer, citing an “irretrievably broken” marriage. Now, the dispute has escalated over money, with Cherelle formally requesting increased financial support from Griner.
Cherelle, who has been practicing law, argues that there is a “substantial disparity” in their incomes and that she is “unable to meet her reasonable financial needs on a monthly basis without continued support.” Griner, who signed a one-year, $1.19 million maximum contract with the Sun, has earned millions throughout her professional career.
The couple shares a 2-year-old son, Bash, and both are seeking custody. They have asked the court to determine what arrangement is in the child's best interest, adding another layer of complexity to the proceedings.
Divorce experts note that alimony disputes are common and can have long-lasting financial implications. “Whether you are the spouse who pays or receives alimony, alimony will affect your finances, possibly well into the future,” said Weinberger Divorce & Family Law Group, LLC. “You want to get this right. Be aware that alimony is highly negotiable and there are different types of alimony that may fit your situation.”
The firm also highlighted potential strategies, such as lump-sum payments, which can offer benefits to both parties. “For example, agreeing to a lump sum alimony payment, even at a lower pay-out rate than in a traditional monthly payment, may sometimes benefit both the recipient and the receiver,” they added.
Griner's focus on the court remains, but the 2026 WNBA regular season is winding down, which could give her more time to address these personal matters. Meanwhile, fans and observers have noted a shift in how Griner is perceived following her return to the league, adding another dimension to her public narrative.
As the legal proceedings continue, both parties are preparing for what could be a lengthy and costly process. The outcome will not only affect their finances but also the future of their young son.
This divorce battle is a reminder that even high-profile athletes face personal struggles that can be just as challenging as any on-court opponent. For now, Griner and Cherelle are navigating a difficult chapter, with no clear resolution in sight.
