Women’s basketball has never been bigger than it is right now. For that, we can thank stars who have become household names: Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, Paige Bueckers, and A’ja Wilson. All of whom, I should mention, have their own signature shoes.
Last year, the WNBA delivered its most-watched regular season in 24 years, and it feels safe to assume they aren’t slowing down anytime soon. This year’s regular season starts in 10 days, and A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces dropped her highly anticipated collab with Nike today to get us hyped up just in time.
The A’One ($110, nike.com), a performance basketball sneaker, is the first custom shoe she’s designed with the brand, but (spoiler) we hope it’s not her last.
Wilson has earned two WNBA rings, two Olympic gold medals, an NCAA title and three WNBA MVP awards, so I think she knows a thing or two about comfy activewear that enhances your game. As a retired college athlete and a big fan of Nike’s signature basketball shoes—I wore the Kobe A.D. (2016), Kobe A.D. (2018), KD Trey 5 VIII, and LeBron Witness 6’s throughout my college career—I had to get my hands on the A’Ones to see what it’s like to step into her shoes (literally). Many recreational volleyball and pickup basketball games later, I can confidently say I get what all the buzz is about.
Original photo by SELF associate social media editor Katie Gunderman
Original photo by SELF associate social media editor Katie Gunderman
The design
The A’One is designed to deliver cushioning, traction, fit, and support— all of which are vital on the court. The shoe’s midsole has Cushlon ST2 foam, which gives athletes a firm base for high-impact movements like running, jumping, and pivoting, plus cushioned landings on the way down. Even the outsole is meant to grip the floor for more precise lateral movements.
My favorite part: The shoe launches in the Pink A’ura colorway, a bold, fiery choice that encapsulates Wilson’s Leo energy (and makes me feel like I’m That Girl on the court). Other personal touches include pearlescent details that pay tribute to Wilson’s grandmother, Celtic symbols as a nod to her parents, and her favorite post game quote on the heel: “Weakness, weakness. We don’t have time for that.”
