Paige Bueckers is set to achieve a significant endorsement milestone before turning professional.
According to Steve Jaconetta of Sole Retriever, Nike is preparing to launch a new sneaker for the UConn women’s basketball star, making Bueckers the first college player to receive her own signature shoe.
Jaconetta reports that Nike will honor Bueckers with a special edition of the GT Hustle 3, which debuted earlier in July. The “multi-color” sneakers will pay tribute to both UConn and Bueckers’ hometown of Edina, Minnesota.
These exclusive shoes are expected to hit the market on September 12, with a retail price of $190.
Bueckers, who signed a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Nike, made a triumphant return from a torn ACL to average 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game in her junior year. Her stellar performance led the Huskies to a Big East tournament championship and another trip to the Final Four.
When Bueckers joined Nike in September 2023, ESPN’s Michael Voepel suggested that the deal could extend into her professional career. This possibility seems even more likely now that Nike is creating a shoe for the 22-year-old before she enters the WNBA.
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“I am blessed and honored to announce my partnership with Nike,” Bueckers said in a statement last year. “Joining the Nike family is a childhood dream come true. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together on and off the court.”
Shoe deals have historically been elusive even for professional women’s basketball stars. Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson recently joined a select group of only 13 WNBA players who have landed their own signature sneaker in the past 30 years. Bueckers’ achievement, therefore, marks a significant moment not only for her but also for the broader landscape of women’s basketball endorsements.
Nike’s decision to honor Bueckers with her own shoe reflects her immense influence and potential. It also signals a growing recognition of female athletes and their marketability.
As Bueckers continues to make her mark on the court, her endorsement deal with Nike is poised to open new doors and set new precedents for college athletes, particularly women, in securing major brand partnerships.
This milestone underscores Bueckers’ remarkable journey and her impact on the sport. As she prepares for her professional career, the release of her signature shoe will undoubtedly be a significant highlight, celebrating her achievements and inspiring future generations of athletes.
