At the 2025 WNBA Draft, held at The Shed in New York City, Kiki Iriafen not only got picked fourth overall by the Washington Mystics, but she also charmed the audience with her gorgeous style, leading many to liken her appearance to a queen. Let’s look at her ‘fit.
Kiki Iriafen Crowned “Queen” of 2025 WNBA Draft Fashion
Fourth overall pick for the Washington Mystics, Kiki Iriafen wore a unique golden gown designed by Nigerian designer Nneka Alexander, which was a tribute to her roots and a highlight of the orange carpet. ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike praised her appearance.
“[Kiki Iriafen] literally looks like a queen.” 🙌 @chiney and @malika_andrews on who wore their favorite fits from the 2025 WNBA draft 👀 pic.twitter.com/CYeqkdqhf4
— espnW (@espnW) April 15, 2025
“[Kiki Iriafen] literally looks like a queen,” the former WNBA star stated.
Iriafen clarified later in the night that the outfit was a celebration of her Nigerian-American heritage. The gown’s complex design and bright shade paid homage to her cultural background, following a larger trend during the draft in which players displayed their ancestry through fashion.
This cultural expression was visible as other draftees embraced their heritage, making the celebration a dynamic display of diversity.
Before joining the WNBA, Iriafen had an outstanding collegiate career. After three seasons at Stanford, she went to USC for her senior year, hoping to be closer to her Los Angeles roots and family.
She averaged 18.2 points and 9.1 rebounds per game while at USC, helping the Trojans secure crucial victories and establishing her status as a top draft prospect.
Iriafen’s manicure, which matched her golden gown, had strong, red, dazzling nails that added a sense of elegance to her look.
Best Outfits From the 2025 WNBA Draft: Who Brought the Heat to the Orange Carpet?
This meticulous attention to detail was part of a bigger trend during the draft, in which athletes embraced fashion and beauty to express their uniqueness and confidence.
Chiney Ogwumike, a two-time WNBA All-Star and ESPN analyst has been an active supporter of Iriafen. Ogwumike has previously praised Iriafen’s draft-night appearance, as well as her personality and elegance, referring to her as a “baller x baddieeeeee” in response to a social media post.
Kiki Iriafen’s debut in the 2025 WNBA Draft was a combination of athletic accomplishment and cultural enthusiasm. Her fashion choices and personal story captivated fans as well as analysts, establishing her as a rising star both on and off the court.
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