Celebrity stylist Courtney Mays is redefining fashion in the WNBA, advocating for inclusivity and celebrating the diverse identities of its athletes. With over 16 years of experience, Mays has styled prominent figures like Sue Bird, Tina Charles, and Brittney Griner, emphasizing the importance of representation in sports fashion.
Mays, a 6-foot-tall Black queer plus-size woman, brings a unique perspective to her work. She understands the challenges athletes face in finding clothing that fits their bodies and identities. Her approach focuses on tailoring and menswear-inspired looks that empower players to express themselves authentically. “If I can help the girls feel powerful, confident, and stylish, and it’s through menswear? I think that’s where I kind of feel successful,” Mays shared in an interview with Essence.
The WNBA, with a significant number of Black and queer athletes, provides a platform for diverse fashion expressions. Mays leverages this by highlighting styles that go beyond traditional norms, ensuring that all players, regardless of their presentation, feel seen. “There’s such a vast, wide spectrum of different styles, and I think that’s what’s so cool about the tunnel fits,” she noted.
Her work extends beyond the court. At the 2025 Met Gala, Mays styled New York Liberty stars Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, and Breanna Stewart, showcasing the intersection of sports and high fashion. Their coordinated ensembles celebrated Black style and the athletes’ individuality, further cementing Mays’s role in bringing sports fashion to the forefront.
Mays’s commitment to inclusivity in fashion not only uplifts WNBA athletes but also challenges the broader industry to embrace diversity in all its forms. Through her work, she continues to inspire a more inclusive and representative fashion landscape.
