Mystics’ 4th overall pick F Kiki Iriafen “arguably stole the show” when it came to fashion at the 2025 WNBA Draft last night making a statement “deeply rooted in her Nigerian heritage,” according to Bryanna Maxwell of the AP. The WNBA draft has “increasingly become a platform for more than just athleticism -- it is a celebration of identity, heritage, culture, and self-expression.” Iriafen said, “I’m Nigerian so I wanted to work with a Nigerian designer.” She wore a “custom, shimmering gold dress embellished with intricate detailing,” designed by Nigerian designer Nneka Alexander. She completed the look with a “traditional orange-beaded Nigerian bracelet, seamlessly blending modern glam with cultural pride.” Storm’s 2nd overall pick C Dominique Malonga “brought a piece of home with her.” She stepped out in a “sleek suit designed by none other than Louis Vuitton” -- one of France’s, and the world’s, most iconic fashion houses. Storm G Nika Muhl came to the draft and “proudly embraced her Croatian heritage.” Muhl wore a “black pantsuit with a black crop top underneath, complemented by a chain of keys draped across her body.” The entire look was designed by Croatian brand Y/GIA and styled by a Croatian stylist. Dream’s 18th pick G Te-Hina Paopao wore a “traditional Samoan dress, along with several flower lei around her neck--symbolic necklaces in Samoan culture that honor and celebrate” (AP, 4/15).
PRESENTED BY COACH: SI’s Clare Brennan writes the Orange Carpet presented by Coach was “filled with high fashion.” Wings’ 1st overall pick G Paige Bueckers was among the players “who donned a sparkled froc, wearing a bedazzled suit on the carpet before making an outfit change ahead of the draft.” However, Bueckers “deemed Iriafen the best dressed of the night.” Wings’ 12th overall pick G Aziaha James opted for a “futuristic look, rocking a black outfit ornamented with silver detail.” The glasses, shoes and “ruffled socks perfectly balance the avant-garde style” (SI, 4/15).
CONNECTIONS TO OTHERS: WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY’s Leigh Nordstrom noted Iriafen worked with Alexander to create a custom dress by her brand Brides by Nona, after seeing ESPN’s Chiney Ogwumike in a custom wedding gown by Alexander. Iriafen said, “Nneka’s worked with Chiney before, so there’s a connection there, and I loved her work, so I decided to work with her.” She tried on the “encrusted bronze gown” for the first time last week in L.A. and “was at a loss for words.” During the collaboration process, the one thing Iriafen knew she “wanted was a leg slit.” Glam-wise, Iriafen “wanted to pay homage to the blond braids she typically wears when she plays, so opted for a blond wig” (WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY, 4/14).
