Power, Purpose & Pink Bottoms: A’ja Wilson and Malia Obama Team Up for Nike
Two Black women. Two powerful lanes. One history-making moment.
When WNBA superstar A’ja Wilson dropped her very first signature Nike sneaker, it wasn’t just a moment for the basketball world—it was a celebration for culture, creativity, and girl power. But the moment became even more magical when it was revealed that the commercial for the launch was directed by none other than Malia Obama. Yes, that Malia Obama—Harvard grad, storyteller, and daughter of President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama.
A’ja’s Shoe Is More Than Just Fire — It’s History
The Nike A’One, A’ja Wilson’s signature sneaker, is full of personality, power, and pride. It features unique details inspired by her South Carolina roots, her journey in the WNBA, and her bold sense of style—including pink soles (a nod to her love for the color), textured designs representing growth, and details that honor her late grandmother.
This shoe isn’t just about performance. It’s about storytelling. And who better to bring that story to life than a young Black woman passionate about storytelling herself? As if the majorettes, double dutch and being hushed in church wasn’t enough, the beads, braids and barrettes represented little BLACK GIRLHOOD ON FULL DISPLAY!
Malia Obama Steps Into the Director’s Chair
Malia has been quietly making a name for herself behind the scenes in Hollywood, writing for TV and building her directorial voice. For the Nike A’One campaign, she stepped into a bold new role—director of the launch commercial.
The result? A beautiful, poetic, and powerful visual that captures A’ja’s journey from little girl to legend, mixing family footage, emotional narration, and fierce visuals of A’ja on the court. Malia’s direction turns a sneaker commercial into a short film full of heart and heritage.
Why This Matters for Black Girls Everywhere
This collab is bigger than sports or sneakers. It’s a reminder that Black girls can do everything. They can be champions. They can be directors. They can make magic on the court and behind the camera.
A’ja and Malia show what it looks like when Black women work together, support each other, and bring their full selves to the table. It’s teamwork. It’s sisterhood. It’s history in the making.
Be Inspired: What’s Your Power Move?
Whether you dream of being an athlete, a filmmaker, a designer, or a leader—you’re never too young to start building your legacy. Just like A’ja. Just like Malia.
So dream big. Create loud. And remember: your story deserves to be told, too.
What do YOU think of A’ja’s new Nike shoe?
Tag us on social and share your power moves! #NebbsDebbsNation #AJAxMalia
