Brittney Griner’s Tearful Admission: A Marriage Under Pressure

In a candid and emotional interview, WNBA star Brittney Griner opened up about her brief and tumultuous marriage to fellow basketball player Glory Johnson, describing it as “a huge mistake” that she felt pressured into by her pregnant wife. This revelation sheds light on the complexities of relationships under public scrutiny and the personal struggles faced by athletes off the court.

The Rapid Rise and Fall of a High-Profile Relationship

Brittney Griner and Glory Johnson’s relationship unfolded under the intense gaze of the media. Engaged in August 2014, the couple’s journey took a dramatic turn when, in April 2015, both were arrested on charges of assault and disorderly conduct following a domestic dispute in their Goodyear, Arizona home. Despite this incident, they proceeded with their wedding on May 8, 2015.

Just weeks later, in early June, Johnson announced she was pregnant with twins conceived via in vitro fertilization. The following day, Griner filed for an annulment, citing feelings of being pressured into the marriage. In an emotional interview with ESPN, Griner tearfully admitted, “Prior to us getting married, I knew I didn’t want to… I shouldn’t have went through with it. You know, sometimes you feel pressured into things, and I went along with it. I just knew it was a mistake.”

The Aftermath: Legal and Personal Consequences

Griner’s annulment request was denied, leading to a divorce finalized in June 2016. The couple’s brief union had significant personal and professional repercussions. Both players were suspended for seven games by the WNBA due to the domestic violence incident, and Griner was required to complete 26 weeks of domestic violence counseling as part of a plea agreement.

The birth of Johnson’s twin daughters in October 2015 added another layer of complexity to the situation. Griner was ordered to pay child support, further entangling her in the aftermath of the failed marriage.

Reflections and Moving Forward

In the years following the divorce, Griner has continued to build her career and personal life. She married Cherelle Watson in June 2019, and the couple welcomed their first child, a son named Bash, in July 2024. Griner credits Cherelle’s unwavering support during her detention in Russia with saving her life.

Griner’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures faced by public figures and the importance of personal agency in relationships. Her willingness to share her story provides insight into the challenges of navigating personal decisions under the scrutiny of the public eye.

For more on Brittney Griner’s journey and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice, visit her official website or follow her on social media platforms.