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Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

How WNBA Players Are Using Merch to Underscore Their Value

The viral ‘Pay Us’ tees worn by players such as Caitlin Clark and Napheesa Collier have become an effective tool in a broader effort to show the league what its stars are worth.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark wears a "Pay us what you owe us" T-shirt prior to the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark wears a "Pay us what you owe us" T-shirt prior to the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. (Getty)

What’s the quickest way to teach 16,000 people a chant? Put it on a T-shirt.

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Further Reading

How the WNBA Tunnel Walk Became a Fashion Marketing Gold Mine

Superstar rookies-turned-pre-game models like Angel Reese and Cameron Brink have transformed the league’s tunnel walk into the hottest runway in town, with brands like Balmain, Prada and Versace clamouring to cash in on the league’s newfound fashion appeal.

Laneige Partners with WNBA Team Phoenix Mercury

The K-beauty brand’s first venture into sports will launch at the WNBA All-Star Weekend later this month, amid a flurry of interest from fashion and beauty brands in women’s basketball.

About the author
Sheena Butler-Young
Sheena Butler-Young

Sheena Butler-Young is Senior Correspondent at The Business of Fashion. She is based in New York and covers workplace, talent and issues surrounding diversity and inclusion.

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