Basketball star, Okikiola “Kiki” Iriafen made a statement both with her achievement and her attire at the WNBA draft.
Kiki was the number four overall pick in the WNBA draft by the Washington Mystics, and that’s such a huge deal. The Stanford women’s basketball alumnus celebrated this significant accomplishment in style.
Photo credit: Teeslomayer/Instagram
For the occasion, she wore a custom-made gold and brown beaded, sequined dress with a thigh-high slit. Designed by Nigerian designer Nneka Alexandra (Brides By Nona), the dress evoked the style of aso-ebi or bridal wear, serving as a homage to Kiki’s Nigerian roots.
@kikiiriafen SNATCHEDDDD!! #fyp #draft #wnba #kikiiriafen #nyc #naijatiktok @BridesbyNona ♬ original sound – Brown Street
Speaking to ESPN, Kiki discussed her choice to represent her heritage on this significant stage:
“It’s been a few months in the making, but I knew I really wanted to have my Nigerian culture incorporated in some way… I really wanted to showcase my culture on this stage. This gown was custom-made and designed by Nneka Alexandra, a Nigerian designer. I have some Nigerian beads and earrings.”
Although Kiki was born in the United States, it was wonderful to see her give a nod to her Nigerian heritage with her outfit choice.
