Sarah Grace Meyn

The 2025 Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Draft showcased not only basketball talent but also fashion statements that served as tools for self-expression, individuality and financial opportunity. For many players, attire choices were moves to build personal brands and share their identities.
At the University of Southern Mississippi, students are noticing the shift.
“Yes, I think women’s sports are finally getting the attention they deserve, especially after last year’s Final Four championship game with South Carolina versus Iowa," said basketball enthusiast and player Diya Rodgers. "Because they’re getting more recognition now in the media, more brands are now seeking those specific teams or athletes, and when those big brands see them it means more exposure in the media, more exposure on TV, and more exposure of their sports.”
The event, held at The Shed in New York City, blended high fashion and athleticism, highlighting the growing influence of women’s sports culture and its connection to broader cultural movements. As women’s sports gain more attention, athletes are using publicity moments to introduce themselves to fans, potential sponsors, fashion houses and media outlets.
Top pick Paige Bueckers, selected No. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever, first wore a crystal-encrusted three-piece suit with an oversized clutch as part of a collaboration with luxury brand Coach. She later changed into a Louis Vuitton look, reflecting the growing role of fashion in professional sports and athlete marketing.
Coach joined other high-end labels such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Ralph Lauren in aligning with WNBA athletes, signaling a shift in the intersection of women’s sports and fashion.
“These girls sit at the intersection of sport, culture and fashion,” said Cathy Engelbert, WNBA commissioner. “Growing their brands, not just in their team market, but nationally and globally.”
For many players, the draft is one of their first major public appearances, offering visibility not just to teams and fans but also to corporate partners, stylists and fashion labels. With WNBA salaries often lower than those in the NBA, players frequently turn to brand deals and endorsements to supplement their income, making events like the draft valuable for future partnerships.
Attire at the draft ranged from custom-tailored suits to streetwear. Clothing choices often reflected personal taste, values and cultural background.
Kiki Iriafen, selected No. 4 overall by the Washington Mystics, chose to highlight her Nigerian heritage through fashion.
“I’m super proud to be Nigerian, and to be able to showcase my culture with a dress by a Nigerian designer and Nigerian beads, Nigerian earrings,” said Iriafen. “On this big stage on one of the biggest days of my life is super special.”
Even NBA stars contributed to the night's fashion. Georgia Amoore, drafted by the Chicago Sky, wore a look from "Honor the Gift," designed and styled by Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook.
“This has never happened before,” said Westbrook. “No athlete has ever dressed another athlete for a draft, let alone an NBA player designing for a WNBA Draft.”
The 2025 WNBA Draft displayed how the growing connection between fashion, culture and sports continues to evolve, and how players are seizing opportunities to show the world who they are both on and off the court.
“It’s a good thing because they can showcase themselves outside of their sport,” said Makayla Johnson. “They can showcase their own sense of style, and you don’t have to go along with the status quo. You can see athletes as more than just athletes — you can see into their personal lives too.”