Basketball Star Rikea Jackson Wears Shahirah Ahmed Footwear During Game Day Tunnel: What Does This Mean for Inclusivity within the Fashion Industry?

Rickea Jackson, 23

The 6’2 basketball star wearing the Shahirah Ahmed Nurah Wedge in black and red patent leather in size 12 during the Unrivaled game day tunnel Sponsored by Sephora.

The WNBA has evolved significantly over the past year, blending athleticism with fashion and personal style. Women’s basketball stars are not only commanding attention on the court but also embracing their personal brands through game-day fashion tunnel moments. These pre-game showcases have become a significant platform for athletes to express their individuality and style, attracting media attention and resonating with fans worldwide.

The rise of fashion in the WNBA and Unrivaled leagues has led to numerous iconic moments, such as Rickea Jackson’s recent tunnel walk before her Unrivaled game, where she was spotted wearing our Nurah Wedge in a size 12. These moments celebrate the fusion of sport and style, allowing players like Rickea to confidently embrace their love of fashion while redefining traditional norms of women’s sports attire. However, despite this evolution, the fashion industry continues to struggle with inclusivity, particularly when it comes to size diversity.

With many WNBA players being taller and requiring larger shoe sizes, they often face challenges in finding fashionable, well-fitting options. The industry’s failure to cater to diverse body types leaves many female athletes underrepresented and underserved. While the WNBA has made strides in promoting inclusivity through fashion, there is still work to be done to ensure all athletes have access to styles that reflect their personal expression.

As the personal style of WNBA players emerges as a form of artistic expression, fashion brands are beginning to recognize the cultural impact of these athletes. Pregame tunnel walks have become a runway where players blend high fashion with street style, breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be both an athlete and a fashion icon. The growing visibility of these players has also attracted major fashion brands, leading to high-profile collaborations. However, while these partnerships prioritize cultural inclusivity, they often fall short in addressing the ongoing need for size diversity.

For example, during the virtual WNBA Draft, players donned custom looks designed by renowned stylists like Sergio Hudson, reinforcing the league’s connection to the fashion industry. Many athletes also use their visibility to advocate for social issues, incorporating activism into their attire and further solidifying their influence beyond basketball.

This dynamic relationship between sports and fashion provides WNBA athletes with a space to express their identities while challenging the fashion industry's traditional standards. As these players influence mainstream fashion, their styling teams and personal brands have the opportunity to push for greater inclusivity and representation.

However, challenges remain. The intersection of women’s fashion and the WNBA is still shaped by gender norms and body inclusivity issues. Many female athletes face scrutiny for their style choices, as traditional views often prioritize functionality over fashion. Players like Angel Reese challenge these norms, proving that athleticism and self-expression can coexist.

Body inclusivity and accessibility remain pressing concerns. Many players feel marginalized by the industry's narrow representation of body types in both clothing and footwear. The lack of size diversity in ready-to-wear fashion can lead to exclusion, making it difficult for athletes of all shapes and sizes to find options that reflect their style.

As the WNBA continues to blur the lines between sports and fashion, it is crucial for brands to recognize and address these gaps. Our brand is committed to championing inclusivity, ensuring that stylish and well-crafted footwear is accessible to all women—especially those who have been overlooked by mainstream fashion. By celebrating the individuality of WNBA players and advocating for broader industry change, we strive to be part of the movement that redefines fashion for women in sports.