Nike has officially announced that A'ja Wilson, renowned for her formidable presence on the basketball court, will be the next elite athlete to launch a signature sneaker line with the brand. This move makes Wilson the 14th woman in history to receive her signature model, joining the ranks of Sabrina Ionescu and Caitlin Clark, the latter just getting her signature sneaker announced. Wilson becomes the only active African-American WNBA player with her new sneaker line.
Wilson, a standout WNBA player with five All-Star selections, an Olympic Gold Medal, and two WNBA MVPs under her belt, has been working closely with Nike for over a year to develop a collection that resonates with her sense of style and uncompromising performance. The collaboration aims to reflect Wilson's authenticity and approach on and off the court. Previously, Wilson was the face of the Cosmic Unity line and even received her own PE colorway of the Cosmic Unity 3.
Ben Nethongkome, the lead footwear designer for Wilson's collection and the designer of other signature sneaker lines, including Devin Booker, shared insights into the creative process, noting Wilson's active involvement in shaping the aesthetics and functionality of her signature shoe. According to Nethongkome, Wilson’s leadership qualities and her ability to articulate her vision played a pivotal role in bringing the sneaker to life, ensuring it met her performance, comfort, and style specifications.
“The design process with Nike was really gratifying, and I didn’t realize how much goes into designing a shoe,” says Wilson. “My biggest asks were that the shoe was light and comfortable for all the hours I spend on the court, and that it also looks really good. It’s versatile, and I hope people will wear it when they’re hooping but also just when they’re walking around every day. It’s so exciting to be sharing my signature, a piece of me, with the world.”
In addition to her court achievements, Wilson has participated actively in Nike’s Athlete Think Tank. This initiative focuses on driving innovation and creating meaningful experiences that empower women and girls in sports. Her signature shoe line and collection aim to inspire young girls to believe in their strength and passionately chase their dreams.
“It’s been incredible working with Nike toward a dream of having my collection, and it really is an honor to take this next step and become a Nike signature athlete,” says Wilson. “From my logo to the look of the shoe and the pieces throughout the collection, we’ve worked to make sure every detail is perfectly tuned to my game and style.”
A’ja Wilson’s first signature sneaker, the Nike A’One, will launch in 2025 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Pricing for the sneaker has not yet been announced. Alongside her signature sneaker line will be a collection of apparel and accessories, offering pieces in women’s, men’s, and kids’ sizes. For updates on Wilson’s upcoming signature sneaker and more in the sneaker and streetwear world, download the Sole Retriever mobile app.
