WNBA star Aja Wilson has made history by becoming the latest athlete to secure a signature shoe deal with Nike. The Las Vegas Aces center, who is a two-time WNBA champion and two-time MVP, announced the partnership on May 11, 2024 during a preseason exhibition against the Puerto Rican national team.
Wilson joins an elite group of athletes to have her own signature shoe with Nike. She follows in the footsteps of Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, and Sabrina Ionescu, among others. The news came as a surprise to many fans who had been eagerly anticipating the announcement.
According to reports, Wilson worked closely with Nike's team of innovation, product, and design experts to create a signature shoe collection inspired by her distinctive style and incredible performance on the court. The collection is set to be released globally in 2025 on Nike.com and SNKRS, as well as at select retailers.
Wilson's journey to becoming a Nike signature athlete began with trust and hard conversations between her and the brand. She had developed a strong relationship with Nike over the years, which allowed for an open dialogue about her vision for the shoe and how it could best represent her on and off the court.
The announcement of Wilson's signature shoe deal comes after Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark reportedly signed a deal worth $28 million for her own signature shoe with Nike. The trend of WNBA players securing lucrative endorsement deals is a positive sign for the league and its growing popularity.
Wilson's impact on the game extends beyond her impressive statistics and accolades. She is an inspiration to young girls and women, encouraging them to set their goals high and pursue their dreams. Her signature shoe collection is expected to be empowering for women, with pieces in women's, men's, and kid's sizing.
The Aces are set to begin their season on May 15 against the Phoenix Mercury. Wilson will undoubtedly be a key player for the team as they aim for a three-peat championship title.
