Brands, Women’s Sport 2 min read

Paige Bueckers Breaks Ground with Nike Player Edition Basketball Shoe

Written by MOS Editorial Team

Published on 5 December 2024

Basketball college athlete, Paige Bueckers, has become the first NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) athlete to release a Nike Player Edition shoe. Her partnership with Nike exemplifies how NIL opportunities can empower athletes to build their personal brands while contributing to the evolution of gender representation in sports endorsements and innovation.

The Nike G.T. Hustle 3 Paige Bueckers Player Edition is designed to support her performance during her final collegiate season, while reflecting her personal style and story. The shoe features advanced technology, including a double-stacked Air Zoom unit and Radial Knit upper, aimed at enhancing energy return, comfort, and durability. The design incorporates personal touches, such as a tribute to Bueckers’ hometown and university, as well as inspirational messages from her father.

Significantly, the shoe’s creation was led by female athletes, with over 90% of its testing and development conducted by women. This aligns with Nike’s commitment to advancing the women’s game and amplifying the voices of female athletes.

This release sets a new precedent for athlete partnerships in the NIL era, showcasing how personal branding and innovative design can converge in the world of sports.

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