Nike Introduces Sabrina Ionescu as Its Newest Signature Athlete

Hot off the heels of welcoming Ja Morant into the signature Swoosh family, Nike is now turning its attention to its women’s category as it has just announced WNBA phenom Sabrina Ionescu as its newest signature athlete. The New York Liberty guard’s Nike Sabrina 1 has been unveiled alongside a set of matching apparel pieces.

Ionescu’s game involves being quick off of her feet and reacting with hard cuts to the basket and tenacious defense, so her first shoe is designed to adapt to her fast-paced, electrifying style of play. Responsiveness is a key factor in the shoe’s performance, and this is present thanks to the full-length React cushioning and Zoom Air unit that is loaded up into the forefoot. Additionally, the midfoot is equipped with a band system and lockdown cables that help stabilize the foot for a secure fit and ride. Intricate embroidered patterns show face on the forefoot and eyestays to honor her heritage and traditional Romanian art and architecture. A dotted “i” wraps around the tops and bottoms of the outsoles as well as the heels to salute her last name. Vertically slanted Swooshes touch down on the medial panel to symbolize the barriers that Ionescu has broken throughout her career along with concealed “Anyone, Anywhere” quotes on the midsoles that represent her competitive spirit. Furthermore, her signature insignia is stamped to the tongues

To accompany the sneakers, Nike also cooked up a range of apparel items including a pullover hoodie, tees, shorts and socks. With this new initiative, Ionescu joins the likes of female signature Swoosh legends Serena Williams, Megan Rapinoe and Naomi Osaka.

The Nike Sabrina 1 is expected to launch during Summer 2023.