A’ja Wilson https://footwearnews.com Shoe News and Fashion Trends Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:05:31 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://footwearnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/cropped-FN-Favicon-2023-05-31.png?w=32 A’ja Wilson https://footwearnews.com 32 32 178921128 A’Ja Wilson Slipped on Timeless Black Leather Pumps For WSJ Magazine’s 14th Annual Innovator Awards in NYC https://footwearnews.com/fashion/celebrity-style/aja-wilson-black-leather-pumps-wsj-magazine-innovator-awards-2024-1234726333/ Wed, 30 Oct 2024 15:27:16 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1234726333


A’ja Wilson attended WSJ Magazine’s 14th Annual Innovator Awards which took place at The Museum of Modern Art in New York yesterday.

This year, the magazine celebrated seven revolutionary icons in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective industries. These icons included big names from fashion to film including Charli XCX, Marc Jacobs and Salma Hayek Pinault, among others. The WNBA was also honored during the event.

A'ja Wilson, WSJ. Magazine, 2024 Innovator Awards, pumps, leather, red carpet, WNBA
A’ja Wilson attends the WSJ. Magazine 2024 Innovator Awards on Oct. 29, 2024 in New York.

Keeping it classic for the teal carpet, the athlete donned jet-black leather pumps. Simple in nature, the footwear pick featured striking triangular toes, glossy black leather uppers and 2 to 3-inch stiletto heels. For those looking to emulate Wilson’s red carpet look, similar shoe silhouettes can be shopped via brands like Nine West, Zara, Ralph Lauren, Gianvito Rossi and Christian Louboutin, among others.

Accompanying her simplistic shoe choice, the basketball star wore a black and white two-piece set featuring a high-waisted floor-sweeping skirt and a matching cropped off-the-shoulder top. The skirt was structural and featured a slit up the front, further diversifying the silhouette.

A'ja Wilson, WSJ. Magazine, 2024 Innovator Awards, pumps, leather, red carpet, WNBA
A closer look at A’ja Wilson’s shoes.

Wilson plays for the Las Vegas Aces of the Women’s National Basketball Association. The athlete won gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, after beating Japan 90-75 in the final. This was the seventh consecutive Olympic gold medal for the USA women’s team. On Aug. 1, Wilson spoke with FN regarding landing her Nike signature sneaker shoe deal. Wilson’s Nike A’One releases in 2025.

A'ja Wilson, WSJ. Magazine, 2024 Innovator Awards, pumps, leather, red carpet, WNBA
A’ja Wilson attends the WSJ. Magazine 2024 Innovator Awards on Oct. 29, 2024 in New York.

“To be the next Black woman with a signature shoe, oh my gosh, I am so excited for next year. I can’t contain it,” Wilson said. “It’s such a big moment. When [the news] first dropped, Coach Staley hit me, Sheryl hit me, Lisa hit me and they were all like, ‘You deserve this.’ To have greats, Hall of Famers like that say that to me, I was like, ‘God, thank you.’”



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1234726333 aw-two A'ja Wilson, WSJ. Magazine, 2024 Innovator Awards, pumps, leather, red carpet, WNBA A'ja Wilson, WSJ. Magazine, 2024 Innovator Awards, pumps, leather, red carpet, WNBA A'ja Wilson, WSJ. Magazine, 2024 Innovator Awards, pumps, leather, red carpet, WNBA
Ariana Grande, Emily Ratajkowski, and More Shoes From WSJ. Magazine’s Innovator Awards 2024 [Photos] https://footwearnews.com/gallery/wsj-magazines-innovator-awards-shoes-2024/ https://footwearnews.com/gallery/wsj-magazines-innovator-awards-shoes-2024/#respond Wed, 30 Oct 2024 15:22:00 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?post_type=pmc-gallery&p=1234726298 WSJ. Magazine celebrated their honorees of the 14th Annual Innovator Awards, taking place at The Museum of Modern Art in New York City on Oct. 29. This year, the magazine celebrated seven Innovators for their achievements in their respective industries.

This year, the Innovators included Charli xcx in the Music category, Jon M. Chu  for Film, Tim Cook for Technology, Marc Jacobs for Fashion, Salma Hayek Pinault for Entertainment and Altruism, Saturday Night Live for Comedy and The WNBA for Sports, which called for an appearance by the New York Liberty mascot Ellie the Elephant.

“This year’s Innovators are boundary-pushing trailblazers,” said WSJ. Magazine Editor in Chief Sarah Ball. “Each has left an indelible mark on their respective industry and continues to shape our future. We’re honored to shine a light on their collective greatness.”

The list of attendees this year was impressive and included A’ja Wilson, Ariana Grande, Aubrey Plaza, Cynthia Erivo, Deacon, Emily Ratajkowski, Jason Wu, Jordan Roth, Kate McKinnon, Kenan Thompson, Lazaro Hernandez, Lila Moss, Linda Evangelista, Nicky Hilton, Paloma Elsesser, Penelope Cruz, Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Paulson, Sofia Coppola, Tamron Hall, Questlove and more. Scroll through to see which guests had on the best shoes of the night.

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A’ja Wilson Opens Up About the Pressures and Joys of Having a Signature Shoe https://footwearnews.com/shoes/sneaker-news/aja-wilson-talks-signature-shoe-nike-event-1234723638/ Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:30:34 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1234723638


The journey of designing and releasing a signature shoe is a long one. A’ja Wilson, whose Nike shoe is slated for a 2025 release, shared the joys and challenges of the process at a media event Monday.

The two-time WNBA champion was one of the featured guests during a series of discussions about all-things basketball, which took place at Nike’s headquarters in New York City. Wilson was joined on stage by Nike Inc. president of geographies and marketplace Craig Williams, as well as Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum via Zoom. The conversation was moderated by ESPN and MSG basketball analyst Monica McNutt.

Among the topics discussed, the three-time WNBA Most Valuable Player shared the pressures that come with having a signature shoe.

“There is pressure when it comes to competing with other brands or just wanting to [have] the best shoe, but at the same time you don’t want the message to get lost, you don’t want the storytelling to get lost. That’s tough because there are a lot of great ideas,” Wilson said. “We have some dope shoes out there. You don’t want your shoe to be just another one. You want longevity, you want a shoe to have a name after a game you had, like the [Air Jordan 12] ‘Flu Game.’ That type of substance is a lot of pressure.”

She continued, “Sitting at the table with your team, having those hard conversations, that caught me by surprise. I thought they were going to be like, ‘Here’s a shoe, we’re just going to put your signature on it’ [Laughs.] But no, they were like, ‘We’re going to break it down,’ and I didn’t think I was ready for that, but now I am and I am so excited and thankful for my team.”

On stage, Wilson, too, shared the joys of being a signature athlete.

“It’s a blessing to me, honestly. It’s something that you dream of as a kid, like, ‘Oh, I get my shoe. Oh, my God, this is it.’ To see it coming to reality has been a lot of hard work, but also a lot of fun,” Wilson said. “I have an awesome team that is trying to put my weird words that I say into a shoe, which is great, because I’m like, ‘I want the thing that goes the thing,’ and then they’re like, ‘OK, we’ve got it.'”

She continued, “It’s unique to me because it’s a shoe that can do a lot. It’s a versatile shoe — anyone can wear it. It’s not a big man shoe, a big woman shoe. It’s going to be comfortable for everyone, and I hope everyone feels that.”

Nike announced in May that it was working with Wilson on a signature collection that would include a shoe, dubbed the A’One. A month later, the brand revealed her logo, which features a star in the “A” of her signature.

Speaking exclusively with FN in July, Wilson provided some insights about her A’One sneaker.

“When people look at my position in basketball, they think of a big-man shoe, a forward or center shoe. The A’One is not that. It is the complete opposite,” Wilson told FN. “It’s very versatile because that is my style of play. And I wanted a shoe that was going to be comfortable and durable for 40 minutes because the last thing I want to worry about on court are my shoes. And it’s a low top.”

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.



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A’ja Wilson Has Been Rocking Sergio Hudson and Smash Shoes for Her Recent Tunnel Walks https://footwearnews.com/fashion/celebrity-style/aja-wilson-las-vegas-aces-wnba-tunnel-pics-ally-1203697825/ Thu, 03 Oct 2024 20:32:45 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1203697825 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.



The WNBA semifinals are in full swing, and all eyes are on the two-time defending champion Las Vegas Aces and its reigning league MVP A’ja Wilson. While millions of fans are tuning in to see the action on the court, attention is also on the famed WNBA tunnel and the shoes worn for their arrival.

The Aces official Instagram account often highlights the basketball stars’ grand entrances ahead of the games on the platform, and Wilson has been known to turn heads with her fashion-forward outfits. The images are a collaboration between the Aces and Ally, who have partnered to give fans an exclusive look at the players’ ever-evolving tunnel style—and proving that the athletes are making an impact when it comes to style.

Ally Financial is a digital financial service company that provides financial products through automotive finance operations, insurance operations and more. “When it comes to fashion on the court, A’ja and her teammates are sporting a new brand this season—Ally,” the company said in a statement to FN. “Ally, a financial services company known for its relentless pursuit to drive investment in women’s sports, became the first-ever official retail banking partner and jersey patch sponsor of the Las Vegas Aces this season.”

Some of Wilson’s most memorable looks recently have been by Sergio Hudson from the designer’s fall 2024 Collection. She wore a bright red suit that consisted of a bustier stretch wool crepe fitted jacket and matching pants when she was named as the WNBA’s 2024 WNBA Most Valuable Player. The basketball star, who was recently included in FN’s list of most stylish WNBA stars, paired the look with understated beige pointed-toe pumps, and after her speech, she posed for photos showing off her look while holding her trophy.

To kick off the first round of the WNBA playoffs, Wilson once again chose a design by Sergio Hudson. She wore a denim and leather combo bustier midi dress, similar to one from last season. The dress featured a gold zipper going down the center, that opened slightly above the knee.

A'ja Wilson wears sergio hudson for Las Vegas Aces x Ally wnba game Arrivals
Courtesy of Las Vegas Aces x Ally Arrivals.

The opening revealed a pair of Fritz knee-high boots by Smash Shoes, which is a brand that focuses on extended sizes. The Fritz boot is available in a range of colors and feature a Lycra stretch material that wraps around the leg, and has a slightly squared toe.

After losing their game against the New York Liberty on Oct. 1, the Aces are now on the brink of elimination but rest assured, Wilson and her teammates will continue serving on and off the court. The teams will face off again for Game 3 on Oct. 4 at 9:30 p.m. ET.

Shop a Similar Style

Steve Madden Vava Black Paris Boots



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A’ja Wilson Is the 2024 WNBA MVP: These Are the Nike Basketball Shoes She Wore Throughout the Season https://footwearnews.com/shoes/sneaker-news/aja-wilson-wnba-mvp-2024-nike-shoes-1203693072/ Sun, 22 Sep 2024 17:22:12 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1203693072


A’ja Wilson is the 2024 WNBA MVP.

On Sunday, the league announced the Las Vegas Aces star was unanimously named the 2024 Kia WNBA Most Valuable Player, receiving all 67 first-place votes from the national panel of sportswriters and broadcasters. She is just the second player in WNBA history to unanimously win the award, the first being Cynthia Cooper of the Houston Comets in 1997.

This is the third time Wilson has won the award, also earning it in 2020 and 2022. Aside from Wilson, only three players have won the award three times in their career: Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie and Lauren Jackson.

Wilson broke multiple WNBA records en route to her MVP nod, including the single-season scoring record and the single-season rebound record. What’s more, on Sept. 15 against the Connecticut Sun, Wilson became the first player in WNBA history to score 1,000 points in a single season.

She averaged 26.9 points and 2.58 blocked shots per game this season, ranked first in the league for both, as well as 11.9 rebounds (ranked second in the league).

Wilson also had plenty of shoe stories both on and off the court in 2024. For instance, Nike announced the two-time WNBA champion as its next signature athlete in May, and that her forthcoming signature sneaker, the A’One, will release in 2025. When the Nike A’One releases, Wilson will be the first Black woman with a signature basketball shoe since Adidas launched its last look for Candace Parker in 2011, the Ace Versatility.

Also, Wilson wore several player edition (PE) Nike LeBron shoes on the court. During WNBA All-Star Weekend in July, the athlete shared the backstory for several of her exclusive looks. Here’s what Wilson had to say, edited for clarity.

Nike LeBron 21 “Indigo” PE

Nike LeBron 21, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron 21 “Indigo” PE.

“My purple LeBron 21 PEs, I love this because I was always called the indigo child, one that’s real creative and thinks outside the box. So anytime I rock purple on the court, I think that tells that story through my shoe. And I love these. It’s the perfect little shade of purple.”

Nike LeBron NXXT Gen

Nike LeBron NXXT Gen, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron NXXT Gen.

“I wore these in a championship game, these are my playoff shoes. I’ve been the type to never wear the same shoe over and over again, but these shoes I cannot throw away. They are my old reliables. I feel like my insoles have a hole in them. They got a lot of buckets in them shoes. When it’s time to get buckets, I always wear those.”

Nike LeBron 21 “Ring Night” PE

Nike LeBron 21, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron 21 “Ring Night” PE.

“These are my ring night ceremony shoes. They’re nice little iridescent, the shiny silver with a chrome and gold Swoosh. Can’t go wrong. It signifies our rings, the back-to-back championships.”

Nike LeBron 21 “Hattie Rakes” PE

Nike LeBron 21, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron 21 “Hattie Rakes” PE.

“These are my grandma PEs, they’re the Hattie Rakes LeBron 21 PEs. A lot of people know my relationship with my grandmother, so I had to give her shoe because she has just inspired me so much to be the person and the player that I am today.”

Nike LeBron 21 “Crushed Velvet” PE

Nike LeBron 21, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron 21 “Crushed Velvet” PE.

“The little crushed velvet, red and pink. I love these because I’ve never seen a colorway like this on a shoe before, and they have the gum bottoms, and I love me a good gum bottom. This was a little thinking outside the box, and I feel like I never really saw a shoe with this type of texture in basketball. I love a good, fun shoe.”

Nike LeBron 21 “Pink Chrome” PE

Nike LeBron 21, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron 21 “Pink Chrome” PE.

“Now this shoe here, my pink chromes, top tier when you talk about a shoe. Pink is my favorite color, and I feel like I love this type of shoe because when I wear it you automatically know it’s me on court because that’s all you see, my hot pink shoes.”

Nike LeBron 21 “Static Shock” PE

Nike LeBron 21, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron 21 “Static Shock” PE.

“This shoe here, top tier, top notch shoe. It’s my ‘Static Shock’ LeBron 21 shoe. It is one of my favorite shoes I’ve ever worn because I grew up watching ‘Static Shock.’ He was amazing, put a shock to your system. The Swoosh on the shoe has lightning bolts going around it, I think that was a great touch. I think that is the best PE we’ve ever put together, and I’m thankful for it.”

Nike LeBron 21 “Polka Dot” PE

Nike LeBron 21, A'ja Wilson
Nike LeBron 21 “Polka Dot” PE.

“Now my polka dots, it’s a nice little twist because it kind of signifies the art gallery that I have in South Carolina. I never really saw a shoe with polka dots on so you can identify with me on the court. Watch us play, but also watch my heat on feet, because that’s what I got.”

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.



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A’ja Wilson’s Nike Basketball Shoes During Her 2024 WNBA MVP Season: Photos https://footwearnews.com/gallery/aja-wilson-wnba-mvp-2024-nike-shoes-photos/ https://footwearnews.com/gallery/aja-wilson-wnba-mvp-2024-nike-shoes-photos/#respond Sun, 22 Sep 2024 17:21:04 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?post_type=pmc-gallery&p=1203693142

A’ja Wilson is the 2024 WNBA MVP.

On Sunday, the league announced the Las Vegas Aces star was unanimously named the 2024 Kia WNBA Most Valuable Player, receiving all 67 first-place votes from the national panel of sportswriters and broadcasters.

Wilson had plenty of shoe stories both on and off the court in 2024. For instance, Nike announced the two-time WNBA champion as its next signature athlete in May, and that her forthcoming signature sneaker, the A’One, will release in 2025.  Also, Wilson wore several player edition (PE) Nike LeBron shoes on the court. Here are eight of the shoes Wilson wore on the court.

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The WNBA’s Most Stylish Players of 2024 https://footwearnews.com/fashion/celebrity-style/most-stylish-wnba-players-2024-1203682550/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 17:49:27 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1203682550


They’re not just incredible athletes on the court. They’re also emerging style icons.

With more eyes on the league now than ever before, many of the WNBA’s biggest names and best talents showed fans both new and old that they also know how to dress. Their outfits are bold and distinct, and the players have range, with some favoring the ultrafeminine and others opting for an edgier, relaxed look.

And the list of the league’s most stylish players, too, has range. Some beloved WNBA veterans (Tina Charles, Skylar Diggins-Smith) continue to impress with their fashion tastes, and several high-profile rookies (Cameron Brink, Rickea Jackson) have shown they, too, belong among the best.

Here, experts on all-things WNBA and fashion share who they believe are among the league’s most stylish. (The list has been ordered alphabetically.)

Cameron Brink

Cameron Brink, WNBA
Cameron Brink.

“It’s no secret this WNBA rookie class has taken the league by storm, showing just how pro ready they were, but I think the Los Angeles Sparks may have two of the most fashionable rookies in the history of the league, one being Cameron Brink. For Cameron, it’s just as her stylist Mary Gonsalves Kinney stated in an interview with the WNBA, her style gives finesse and power. Her style is undeniable and gives elegance with edge.” — TJ Keasal, sneaker YouTuber and women’s basketball advocate

Tina Charles

Tina Charles, WNBA, Atlanta Dream

“Tina’s style is inspired by all of the pieces I would want to create the perfect capsule wardrobe — the well fitting denim, the oversized cardigan, the tailored suit, leather pant, white sneaker, boots and an unlimited collection of perfectly fittings tanks and tees. Her look is effortless and she leans into silhouettes that are timeless.” — Courtney Mays, wardrobe stylist (Tina Charlies is a client of Mays)

Natasha Cloud

Natasha Cloud, 2024 WNBA All-Star
Natasha Cloud during 2024 WNBA All-Star Weekend.

“Tasha has mastered the accessory — the wallet chain, the fisherman beanie, the Cuban link chain and Dr Martens. I believe whole heartedly that accessories make the outfit and she nails it. She plays with silhouettes really well as well. Muscle tees and cropped oversized shirts, wide leg cargos. It feels on trend, but also works really well for her.” — Courtney Mays

Kahleah Copper

WNBA, Kahleah Copper
Kahleah Copper.

“Kahleah Copper’s blend of street and high fashion is always on display. Some of my favorite looks she has put together has been with clothing from unisex brand called Not Thompson. Making a statement is what Kahleah does when it comes to style.” — Greydy Diaz, journalist, host and producer who covers women’s sports

Skylar Diggins-Smith 

Skylar Diggins-Smith, WNBA
Skylar Diggins-Smith.

“Skylar Diggins-Smith has cemented her status as a fashion icon in the sports world, consistently earning spots on best-dressed athlete lists from Complex and LeagueFits. This season, she’s elevated her style game by expertly blending business casual with oversized blazers, leather trenches and ’90s-inspired looks. Diggins-Smith doesn’t shy away from high fashion and custom pieces, mixing in brands like Off-White and Puma, often complementing her outfits with eye-catching eyewear. Her diverse and sophisticated wardrobe choices have transformed her pre-game appearances into must-see fashion moments, effectively turning the path to the locker room into her personal runway.” — Velissa Vaughn, veteran publicist and founder of the style-focused WNBA Tunnel Instagram account

Tiffany Hayes

Tiffany Hayes, New York Fashion Week, NYFW, WNBA
Tiffany Hayes during New York Fashion Week.

“Tiffany Hayes embodies an effortlessly cool style, which inspired the creation of her own brand, Seyah. Her fashion sense seamlessly blends streetwear with high-end fashion, resulting in a polished yet edgy look. Hayes frequently showcases Seyah pieces in her outfits, pairing them with luxury brands like Givenchy and Y/Project. She completes her ensembles with statement accessories from designers such as Bottega Veneta, bringing her refined streetwear-meets-high-fashion looks together. This unique combination highlights Hayes’ personal style while also promoting her own brand.” — Velissa Vaughn

Rickea Jackson

Rickea Jackson, WNBA
Rickea Jackson.

“She wowed from day one at the WNBA Draft, as the first draftee to change mid-event, turning heads in two stunning suit looks, with a nod to Detroit, Mich., in her ‘Buffs’ [sunglasses]. It wouldn’t surprise a single fan to see this phenomenal rookie boast 20 points with ease on the court, and be front row or even walk the runway of New York or Paris Fashion Week next season.” — TJ Keasal

Olivia Nelson-Ododa 

Olivia Nelson-Ododa, WNBA
Olivia Nelson-Ododa.

“Olivia Nelson-Ododa possesses true model potential, with a presence that could easily grace the runways of Paris and Milan if she weren’t excelling in basketball. Her style is a masterful blend of femininity and edge. She embraces micro minis that showcase her statuesque legs, while balancing these feminine pieces with oversized menswear for contrast. Nelson-Ododa incorporates custom designs from KA Creative House and mixes high-end and accessible brands, with Diesel being a notable favorite. Her commanding height and poise elevate every outfit, giving even casual looks a high-fashion editorial quality. Nelson-Ododa’s ability to effortlessly combine diverse elements results in ensembles worthy of a Vogue cover, seamlessly bridging the worlds of sports and haute couture.” — Velissa Vaughn

Arike Ogunbowale

Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings, 2024 WNBA All-Star
Arike Ogunbowale.

“Arike always makes me double-take when it comes to her style. Her color pairings, layers and mix of textures are fascinating. She’s intentional about what pieces she puts together, but if you look closely, she’s always going to stunt a bit with something a little flashy — just like her game.” — Greydy Diaz

Breanna Stewart

WNBA, Puma, Breanna Stewart, basketball
WNBA star Breanna Stewart in a Zegna navy jacket, Ami Paris short with panels, Puma Dare To crop top and Suede Classic XXI sneakers.

“Obviously I’m a bit biased, but I love the way that Stewie leans into her love of fashion in bold ways — cowboy boots and fridge sweatpants, plaid or leather shorts sets, oversized eyewear and trucker hats. There is a mix of luxury brands and street wear staples that feel authentic to her style sensibility. Authenticity is key when I think about the most stylish people. Instead of trying to create viral moments, Stewie’s looks feel effortless, like these are looks she wears hanging out in BK [Brooklyn, N.Y.].” — Courtney Mays (Breanna Stewart is a client of Mays)

Erica Wheeler

Erica Wheeler, WNBA
Erica Wheeler.

“Giving a masterclass in street style inspiration. I love the way she incorporates hockey and football jerseys into her looks.” — Courtney Mays

A’ja Wilson

A'ja Wilson, Nike, WNBA, basketball
A’ja Wilson in her Nike A’One hoodie and short with Air Max 1 Essential sneakers.

“Collectively, we know A’ja Wilson has cemented herself as an unstoppable force, but she’s also emerged as one of the most fashionable players ahead of her MVP performances with an athletically feminine style that turns heads. Her signature single legged tight has transcended basketball (to our very own Olympic gold medal USWNT), and her versatile style is an inspiration that fans can’t wait to embrace as their own with her highly anticipated A’One sneaker and collection.” — TJ Keasal

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.



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A’ja Wilson Breaks the WNBA Single-Season Rebound Record in Polka Dot Nike LeBron 21 PEs https://footwearnews.com/shoes/sneaker-news/aja-wilson-rebound-record-polka-dot-nike-lebron-21-pe-1203690767/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 05:07:02 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1203690767 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.



Another game, another record broken by A’ja Wilson.

The Las Vegas Aces star entered Tuesday’s game against the Seattle Storm with 444 rebounds, just three shy of breaking the single-season mark of 446 set by rookie Angel Reese. Wilson broke the single-season rebound record less than five minutes into the first quarter, grabbing her 447th of the season.

Wilson ended the game — a 85-72 win over Seattle — with seven rebounds, bringing her season total to 451 with one game remaining. Wilson and the Aces will face the Dallas Wings at home on Thursday.

To set the new single-season rebound record, Wilson had a polka dot-adorned Nike LeBron 21 player exclusive (PE) laced up. The predominantly blue look featured light pink polka dots on the upper, as well as green at the heel and hits of red throughout. Wilson has worn this particular PE this season.

Speaking with FN during WNBA All-Star Weekend in July, Wilson broke down some of the PEs that she has worn during this season, including this polka dot pair.

“These signify the art gallery that I have in South Carolina, and I love the vibe to it. I never saw a shoe with polka dots on them. You can identify with me on the court [in these shoes], and I love that,” Wilson told FN.

A'ja Wilson, Nike LeBron 21, basketball, shoes, sneakers, WNBA
The polka dot-adorned Nike LeBron 21 PEs worn by A’ja Wilson as she broke the WNBA single-season rebound record.

Wilson is having a season for the ages, which included breaking the WNBA single-season scoring record on Sept. 11 against the Indiana Fever. During the second quarter of the game, Wilson broke the previous mark of 939 points set by Jewell Loyd in 2023. Wilson scored 27 points in the 86-75 win over the Fever, and ended the game with 956 points for the season.

Four days later, Wilson became the first player in WNBA history to score 1,000 points in a single season. Wilson notched her 1,000th point late in the fourth quarter in the 84-71 win over the Connecticut Sun.

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About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.



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1203690767 aja-wilson-rebound-record-1 A'ja Wilson, Nike LeBron 21, basketball, shoes, sneakers, WNBA
A’ja Wilson Becomes the First Player in WNBA History to Score 1,000 Points in a Season in Silver Nike LeBron 21s https://footwearnews.com/shoes/sneaker-news/aja-wilson-1000-points-season-nike-lebron-21-silver-pe-1203689127/ Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:52:34 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1203689127 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.



A’ja Wilson has made WNBA history yet again.

On Sunday, the Las Vegas Aces star became the first player in WNBA history to score 1,000 points in a single season. Wilson notched her 1,000th point late in the fourth quarter in the 84-71 win over the Connecticut Sun.

With 1:18 left in the game, the Aces called a time out so Wilson — amid “MVP” chants from the home crowd at Michelob Ultra Arena and being mobbed by teammates — could take in the moment.

Nike, too, celebrated Wilson’s moment. Through its Nike Basketball social media handles, the athletic giant shared a black-and-white text image that read “A’One Thousand.”

Wilson, who had 29 points in the win, can add onto her points total with two regular season games remaining: a road matchup against the Seattle Storm on Tuesday and a home game on Thursday against the Dallas Wings.

During the game, Wilson had a familiar pair of sneakers laced up. She opted for her metallic silver Nike LeBron 21 PE with hits of gold throughout. In terms of tech, the shoe features an Air Zoom unit in both the heel and forefoot, which is paired with a foam that Nike described as “soft and springy.” It also includes a strong, top-loaded plastic plate added to keep the wearer steady and give he or she “more snap when taking off.”

Although Wilson wears looks from the signature shoe franchise of NBA star LeBron James, Nike announced Wilson as its next signature athlete in May. Her forthcoming signature sneaker, the A’One, is slated to arrive in 2025.

Speaking with FN during WNBA All-Star Weekend in July, Wilson provided some insights about her A’One sneaker.

“When people look at my position in basketball, they think of a big-man shoe, a forward or center shoe. The A’One is not that. It is the complete opposite,” Wilson told FN. “It’s very versatile because that is my style of play. And I wanted a shoe that was going to be comfortable and durable for 40 minutes because the last thing I want to worry about on court are my shoes. And it’s a low top.”

Shop Nike LeBron Shoes

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Nike LeBron XXI “Queen Conch” Basketball Shoes
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About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.



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1203689127 Connecticut Sun v Las Vegas Aces
A’ja Wilson Breaks the WNBA Single-Season Scoring Record in Nike LeBron 21 PEs https://footwearnews.com/shoes/sneaker-news/aja-wilson-breaks-wnba-scoring-record-nike-lebron-21-1203687867/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 03:48:07 +0000 https://footwearnews.com/?p=1203687867 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Footwear News may receive an affiliate commission.



A’ja Wilson is having a season for the ages, and it got even better Wednesday night.

Against the Indiana Fever, the Las Vegas Aces star broke the WNBA single-season scoring record, a mark set by Jewell Loyd in 2023 with 939 points. Wilson — who scored 27 points in the 86-75 win over the Fever — broke the record in the second quarter, and ended the game with 956 points for the season.

And with four games remaining in the regular season, Wilson could become the first player in WNBA history to eclipse 1,000 points in a season. (She is currently averaging 27 points per game.)

On the Gainbridge Fieldhouse court in Indianapolis, Wilson had a player exclusive (PE) iteration of the Nike LeBron 21 laced up. The look was predominantly white with a pearlized finish to the upper, with lavender Swoosh branding. Speaking with FN in July during WNBA All-Star Weekend in Phoenix, Wilson said this particular PE was for her grandmother, Hattie Rakes.

Wilson and the Aces will remain in Indiana to face the Fever on Friday before returning to Las Vegas to host the Connecticut Sun on Sunday.

Although Wilson wears looks from the signature shoe franchise of NBA star LeBron James, Nike announced Wilson as its next signature athlete in May. Her forthcoming signature sneaker, the A’One, is slated to arrive in 2025.

Shop Nike LeBron Shoes

Nike LeBron XXI “Tahitian” Basketball Shoes
On Sale 50% off

Nike LeBron XXI Basketball Shoes
On Sale 50% off

Nike LeBron XXI “Queen Conch” Basketball Shoes
On Sale 50% off

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.



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1203687867 aja-wilson-wnba-scoring-record