The WNBA’s Fashion Game is Stronger Than Ever – Here’s Why.

2024 has been a landmark year for women’s basketball, both on the court and in the world of fashion. The recent WNBA All-Star game, the WNBA draft, and the game day tunnel ‘fits have all contributed to the growing excitement around the personal style of the players. This surge in attention towards WNBA players’ fashion choices speaks volumes about the league’s present and future trajectory.

Historically, popular players have always garnered celebrity status not just for their on-court performances but also for their fashion sense, driving cultural trends forward in the US. The increasing focus on WNBA players’ fashion choices indicates a shift in the league’s visibility and popularity, bringing it closer to the NBA in terms of viewership. The intertwining of professional basketball and fashion has always been strong, and the attention given to what WNBA players wear and how their style is perceived has significant implications for the league’s growth and development.

The evolution of WNBA fashion can be traced back to its inception in 1996. Players like Sheryl Swoopes, Cynthia Cooper, Lisa Leslie, and Dawn Staley were not only known for their athletic prowess but also for their impeccable fashion sense. The style of the WNBA has always been cool, hip, and reflective of the latest cultural trends. Players used their clothing choices to express their personal style, including their shoe game.

During the ’90s and 2000s, urban streetwear dominated the WNBA fashion scene, with players embracing hip-hop music and fashion as sources of inspiration. Players sported jersey-style matching sets, Air Jordans, and hoop earrings, reflecting the fashion trends prevalent in Black communities across the US. This era marked the emergence of athleisure wear styles, where players struck a balance between comfort and street style.

In the 2010s, high fashion became more intertwined with the WNBA, with players like Swin Cash, Brittney Griner, and Skylar Diggins emerging as style influencers. Cash and Diggins graced magazine covers and walked runways during New York Fashion Week, elevating WNBA fashion to new heights. The progression of WNBA fashion can be clearly seen in each draft class photo, with players embracing daring, designer outfits on the orange carpet in recent years.

Fast forward to the present day, and WNBA fashion is at the forefront, with players like Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, Cameron Brink, and Kamilla Cardoso showcasing their style both on and off the court. The WNBA draft has become a fashion spectacle, with draftees dressed by top fashion designers, further solidifying the league’s presence in the fashion world. Additionally, the game day tunnel has transformed into a runway show, allowing players to showcase their personal style to a wider audience through traditional and social media.

The momentum around WNBA fashion is not just a result of the league’s growing popularity but also a consequence of the NCAA’s decision to allow name, image, and likeness deals for college athletes. This shift has increased visibility of players’ lifestyles, including their fashion choices, outside of the sport. Women basketball players, like UCONN guard Paige Bueckers, have capitalized on these opportunities, securing sponsorships and partnerships with major brands, paving the way for more lucrative endorsement deals in the future.

In conclusion, WNBA players are not only dominating the style game but also using their fashion choices to express their individuality and support social movements. The growing visibility of women athletes in the fashion world signifies a shift towards greater inclusivity and representation in sports. As the league continues to gain recognition and support, the future of WNBA fashion looks bright, with players elevating the game both on and off the court.