As the 2024 WNBA season begins, this year's incoming rookie class is drawing a lot of attention, not only for their serious play, but their off-court efforts—and personal style—as well. Minnesota Lynx rookie Alissa Pili is one of the most anticipated talents many will be following this season, and yet, the 6-2 forward's impact has been extending beyond the box: Pili, who is of Samoan and Iñupiaq, Native descent. The Alaskans, currently tied with Ruthy Hebard as the highest draft pick by an Alaskan, went 8th overall (Hebard was drafted by the Sky in 2020).
As a new professional, the former Utah star has continued to put his community, and values, first. From his first arrival to the W—draft night, held in April—Pili wore a beautiful, custom-made jacket from the company AUTHMADE STADIUM, founded by Jason Vu in 2017. The brand has continued to redefine the intersection of fashion and sportswear, and has created custom pieces for high-profile clients across hoops and entertainment, including Bad Bunny, Jayson Tatum and collaborations with NBA teams such as the Sacramento Kings and Brooklyn Nets.
AUTHMADE STADIUM specializes in streetwear, making the gown creation a first for Vu. And yet, she is not one to shy away from a challenge, especially one that involves integrating elements of storytelling, purpose, and celebration of AAPI communities, into her work. Vu began the process by getting to know Pili personally through texts, Zoom sessions, and sharing inspirational photos and drawings, while learning more about his story and his connection to his roots.
“Being a Vietnamese immigrant of AAPI descent and being in an industry where more representation is needed as a designer, I think the story is compelling,” Vu told WSLAM.
In terms of frame, Pili specifically wanted to wear a piece that represented who she was and where she came from, and Vu's attention to detail was key to creating a look that complimented Pili's style.
“Having a national document included in the view was something that was very important to Alissa. He also wanted to show the tattoos of his tribe on both his right leg and left shoulder, so adding a shoulder and cuts helped him compliment his body and highlight his tattoos,” he said.
For Pili, the final product was perfect: “My WNBA draft dress represented my Polynesian culture,” Pili said. “I wanted to incorporate where I'm from, with pride, and designer Jason Vu did an amazing job taking my vision and creating beautiful, beautiful art.”
His late night appearance was also the perfect introduction for W fans to get to know the rookie on a deeper level, all while respecting his community, family and upbringing. When asked what gives him the most satisfaction, Vu echoed that sentiment. “[It was fulfilling] so that he can make a dress that he can not only be proud of, but also his family, his community in Alaska, and the entire Polynesian community that follows him,” he said.
For AUTHMADE STADIUM, this is just the beginning. The brand recently launched a new collection in collaboration with the WNBA and the NBA, “So I Can Dream.”
Photo credit: On Time Agency & Minnesota Lynx, Jake Soriano.
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