Brittney Griner, 33, and her wife Cherelle Griner, 32, are overjoyed to announce the arrival of their first child. The couple welcomed a baby boy on July 8, weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces. Brittney shared the joyous news during an interview with CBS Sports on Friday, July 19. With a net worth estimated at $5 million, Brittney Griner’s accomplishments both on and off the court are extensive. At 6’9″, she is a towering figure in the WNBA, but it’s clear that her greatest pride and joy now lies in her new role as a parent.
How Did Brittney Announce the Birth of Their Son?
Brittney couldn’t contain her excitement as she spoke about her newborn son during the CBS Sports interview. “That’s my man. He is amazing,” Brittney gushed, noting that she will be called “pops.” The new parent beamed with pride, sharing how her entire perspective shifted upon seeing her son for the first time. “They said as soon as you see them, everything that you thought mattered just goes out the window. That’s literally what happened,” she added.
What Challenges Does Brittney Face as a New Parent and Athlete?
Despite the joy of welcoming their son, Brittney is facing the challenge of balancing motherhood with her demanding career. She expressed her mixed emotions about having to leave her newborn to compete in the WNBA All-Star weekend in Phoenix, Arizona, and subsequently participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics, representing Team USA for the third time. “He will understand,” Brittney said, expressing her hope that her son will come to appreciate her dedication. She humorously added, “My whole phone has turned into him now,” illustrating her current obsession with her son.
How Did Brittney and Cherelle Share Their Pregnancy Journey?
The couple announced their pregnancy in April with a heartfelt Instagram post, captioned, “Can’t believe we’re less than three months away from meeting our favorite human being.” The post, which included sonogram images, was tagged with “#BabyGrinerComingSoon” and “#July2024,” showcasing their excitement and anticipation.
When Did Brittney and Cherelle Meet and Get Married?
Brittney and Cherelle’s love story began at Baylor University, where they both studied from 2009 to 2013. However, their romantic relationship didn’t blossom until years later. They got engaged and eventually tied the knot in June 2019, marking the beginning of their life together as a married couple.
What Happened During Brittney’s Detainment in Russia?
In February 2022, Brittney made headlines when she was arrested on drug charges at a Moscow airport while playing for UMMC Ekaterinburg during the WNBA offseason. Russian authorities accused her of smuggling hash oil into the country in her luggage. Three months later, the U.S. State Department declared that Brittney was being “wrongfully detained.”
What Was the Outcome of Brittney’s Legal Battle in Russia?
In July 2022, Brittney pleaded guilty in a Russian court and received a nine-year prison sentence. Her situation gained international attention, and in December 2022, she was released and returned to the U.S. through a prisoner exchange with Russia for a convicted arms dealer.
How Did Cherelle Advocate for Brittney’s Freedom?
Throughout Brittney’s imprisonment, Cherelle Griner emerged as a fierce advocate for her wife’s freedom. She appeared on CBS Mornings in October 2022, sharing her fears and the emotional toll of the situation. “It terrifies me because when you watch movies, sometimes those situations don’t end well,” Cherelle said. She also spoke about the surreal experience of seeing global leaders discuss Brittney’s case, describing her wife’s detainment as feeling like she was a hostage.
What Were Cherelle’s Concerns During Brittney’s Detainment?
Cherelle’s fears were palpable as she questioned whether a negotiation for Brittney’s return would be possible. “I’m sitting there like, ‘Do we get her back? Do I ever get to see my wife again? Like, what happens [next]?’” she recounted. The uncertainty and constant changes in the situation were deeply unsettling for Cherelle, who described the experience as “terrifying.”
How Did Brittney Express Her Gratitude After Her Release?
Upon her release, Brittney expressed profound gratitude for the support she received during her ordeal. “It feels so good to be home!” she wrote on Instagram in December 2022. Reflecting on the ten months she spent detained, she acknowledged the difficulties and the strength she drew from the love and support of those who stood by her. “The last 10 months have been a battle at every turn. I dug deep to keep my faith, and it was the love from so many of you that helped keep me going. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone for your help.”
What Does the Future Hold for Brittney, Cherelle, and Their Newborn?
As Brittney Griner prepares for the upcoming WNBA All-Star weekend and the 2024 Paris Olympics, she and Cherelle are also embarking on the journey of parenthood. The couple’s resilience and unwavering support for each other have seen them through challenging times, and now, with their baby boy, they are looking forward to a future filled with love and new adventures. Their story is a testament to the power of love, faith, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
