Two-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson is redefining what it means to be a dominant female athlete, proving that fierce competitiveness on the court and unapologetic femininity off it are not mutually exclusive.
In a candid and stylish feature for Vogue titled “In the Bag,” the Las Vegas Aces superstar opened up about her deliberate choice to embrace both sides of her identity. While many female athletes have historically felt pressure to downplay their femininity to be taken seriously in sports, Wilson has rejected that narrative.
“I never wanted to lose the beauty of being a woman and still hoop,” she told Vogue. “I can still be pretty. I can still do my makeup. I can still get my edges laid and still go out there and be a dog on the court.”
Wilson’s bag reflects this duality. Alongside performance essentials like her Whoop fitness tracker, congestion spray, and eye massager, she carries brow kits, edge control, lip gloss, and designer pieces from Louis Vuitton and Goyard.
She also travels with playful items such as Sour Patch Kids (blue flavour only), Uno cards, Squishmallows, and multiple Labubus — including one dressed in her own Nike A’One signature shoe collection.
The 29-year-old has built a reputation as one of the most dominant players in the WNBA while simultaneously growing her personal brand. Her Nike signature shoe line, the A’One, and her willingness to express herself through fashion and beauty have made her a role model for young girls who want to excel in sports without sacrificing their sense of self.
Wilson’s approach challenges long-standing stereotypes in women’s sports that often force athletes to choose between being “athletic” or “feminine.” By refusing to make that choice, she is helping shift the culture around female athleticism, showing that strength and softness can coexist.
Her message resonates far beyond the basketball court. In an era where female athletes are increasingly leveraging their platforms for both performance and personal expression, Wilson stands out as a leading voice for authenticity and balance.
