PHOENIX — Former Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner may no longer play in the Valley, but one major life update has fans talking about one of the most recognizable players in franchise history.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Brittney Griner has filed for divorce after eight years of marriage 💔 https://t.co/k6QgKUlTVJ
— TMZ (@TMZ) July 31, 2026
Griner, who spent 11 seasons in Phoenix after being selected No. 1 overall in the 2013 WNBA Draft, is reportedly separating from her wife, Cherelle Griner. According to court records filed in Fulton County, Georgia, the filing states the marriage is “irretrievably broken” and lists July 24 as the couple’s separation date.
The former Mercury standout is seeking joint legal custody of the couple’s 2-year-old son, Bash.
Aug 5, 2024; Paris, FRANCE; Brittney Griner and wife Cherelle Griner pose for a photograph during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Team USA House. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
The news marks another major change in what has been a whirlwind stretch of Griner’s life both on and off the court. The couple became nationally recognized during Griner’s 2022 detention in Russia, when Cherelle emerged as a leading voice advocating for her wife’s release. Their relationship became a symbol of resilience during one of the most difficult periods of Griner’s life.
Since then, Griner has entered a new chapter. After leaving the Mercury ahead of the 2025 season, she signed with the Atlanta Dream, bringing an end to one of the most successful player-franchise partnerships in WNBA history. She is currently playing for the Connecticut Sun.
Cherelle Griner, wife of Brittney Griner, sheds tears while watching a video of Griner during a rally for her release at the Footprint Center on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, in Phoenix.
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For more than a decade, Griner was the face of the Mercury. During her time in Phoenix, she became a nine-time All-Star, a WNBA champion, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and the franchise’s all-time leader in blocked shots.
Her impact extended beyond the box score, helping define an era of Mercury basketball and becoming one of the most influential athletes in franchise history.
Jul 23, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Dream center Brittney Griner (42) walks on to the court before a game against the Phoenix Mercury at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
The divorce filing represents another chapter in Griner’s journey, one that has included championship success, personal challenges and major life changes.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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