Introduction
Brittney Griner, one of the most exceptional talents in women’s basketball, has found herself at the center of swirling rumors and misinformation. Among the most persistent—and outright false—rumors is the claim that she has been banned from the WNBA. At the same time, her personal life, particularly her marriage to Cherelle Griner, offers a story of resilience, love, and unwavering support. This article delves into the facts behind the “banned” rumor, explores her marital journey, and gives readers a clear, factual understanding of where things stand for Griner today.
1. The “Banned from WNBA” Rumor: Debunked
1.1 The Persistent False Claim
Earlier in mid-2025, a viral rumor claimed that Brittney Griner had been suspended—or even banned—from the WNBA because “she’s a man.” This sensational claim circulated widely across TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube. However, reputable sources thoroughly debunked it. Snopes reviewed the claim and affirmed it was false—no evidence exists that Griner was suspended for any gender-related reason. The footage used to support the claim was not related to her, and no credible news outlets reported such a development.
1.2 Additional Fact-Checks
PolitiFact and Reuters have also previously addressed related rumors. In 2022, PolitiFact rated similar claims about Griner being male as “Pants on Fire,” indicating blatant falsehood. Additionally, Reuters confirmed she was not dismissed from Team USA for any misconduct before the 2024 Olympics.
1.3 On-court Discipline vs. Career Ban
That said, Griner has faced legitimate disciplinary action during her career. In 2015, both she and then-wife Glory Johnson received seven-game suspensions from the WNBA due to a domestic incident. This event was separate and far from a career banESPN.com. More recently, in 2025, Griner was ejected from a game after a heated exchange with a referee, sparking speculation about a potential suspension—but not a ban. No ban or permanent suspension was issued.
In summary: Brittney Griner has not been banned from the WNBA. The rumors are entirely false, and though she has faced occasional disciplinary actions, her career continues.
2. Brittney Griner’s Personal Life: Her Marriage to Cherelle Griner
2.1 Who Is Cherelle Griner?
Cherelle Griner (née Watson) is Brittney’s wife. The two met as students at Baylor University between 2009 and 2013. While Griner pursued her legendary basketball career, Cherelle later enrolled in law school at North Carolina Central University, graduating cum laude with a law degree in May 2022
The couple had been dating, and Brittney proposed in August 2018. They were married in June 2019.
2.2 Cherelle’s Advocacy During Griner’s Imprisonment
When Brittney was detained in Russia in February 2022 for carrying medically prescribed cannabis oil—illegal in Russia—Cherelle became her staunchest advocate. She publicly urged U.S. officials to push for her wife’s release, even meeting with President Biden. Upon Brittney’s return from prison in December 2022 (via the high-profile exchange for arms dealer Viktor Bout), Cherelle said she felt her “family is whole,” expressing overwhelming relief.
2.3 Growing the Family
In April 2024, the couple announced they were expecting their first child together, sharing ultrasound photos and announcing a July due date. Their son, Bash, was born in July 2024. Griner delightfully revealed in an interview that she prefers to be called “Pops” rather than “Mom”. In January 2025, she posted family photos on Instagram showing Cherelle, Bash, and their dog Major, underscoring her joy in framing a peaceful, loving home.
3. Brittney Griner’s Career & Context Today
Though this article focuses on the rumor and her personal life, it’s worth contextualizing Griner’s current professional standing:
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Still active in the WNBA: In January 2025, she signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Dream, departing the Phoenix Mercury where she had spent 11 seasons.
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Remarkable comeback: After her 2022 imprisonment, Griner returned to the WNBA in 2023, performed at elite levels, and participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning gold with Team USA.
Conclusion
Fact: Brittney Griner is not banned from the WNBA. That rumor is entirely false. She continues her career, now with the Atlanta Dream, after a celebrated return following her detention in Russia.
Personal journey: Her marriage to Cherelle stands as a testament to devotion and strength—through trials, injustices, and even a global ordeal. Today, they are building a happy family with their son Bash and cherishing a peaceful, loving life together.
