Tunnel Fits: Phoenix Mercury's Fashion-Forward WNBA Journey

The Evolution of WNBA Pre-Game Fashion

As the WNBA continues to grow and evolve, so too has its approach to pregame fashion. In the past, players were often restricted by strict dress codes that emphasized formality and uniformity. However, the league has now embraced a more expressive and creative style, turning pregame tunnel walks into a vibrant display of individuality and flair.

Diana Taurasi, a former Mercury superstar, recalls the days when players could be fined for wearing casual attire like ripped jeans. “On road trips you had to be dressed in slacks, penny loafers, and a button-up,” she said. These days, the WNBA has shifted toward encouraging freedom of expression, making pregame fashion an essential part of the game experience.

The shift has been gradual but significant. While formal attire once dominated the scene, it has now given way to a more dynamic and colorful approach. Players are no longer confined to traditional outfits; instead, they are using the pregame walk as a chance to express their personal style.

A New Era of Expression

With the rise of young stars such as Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, and Cameron Brink, the WNBA has seen unprecedented growth in popularity. This increased exposure has brought more attention to what players wear, with some of the current outfits being far more daring than those seen just a decade ago.

Despite the loosening of dress code rules over the years, it took time for the fashion-focused runway to become a regular feature in WNBA arenas. Slacks and dress shirts have largely faded from pregame rotations, but the league still maintained some level of control over off-the-court attire.

Kalani Brown, a Mercury center, remembers the early days of her career. “When I first got in the league, it really wasn’t a thing,” she said. “People still wore their warmups to the game, but I definitely think as the years progressed, the tunnel looks have become a thing.”

Fashion Meets Basketball

The intersection of basketball and fashion has allowed players to connect with fans in new ways. Social media plays a major role, with many players sharing their pregame outfits online. Platforms like LeagueFits, a division of SLAM Magazine, have emerged to highlight these fashion moments, creating a unique space where basketball and style intersect.

This evolution is not without its critics. Some argue that the focus on pregame fashion might overshadow the actual games. A recent editorial in the Sports Business Journal questioned whether tunnel fashion shows could become so prominent that the competition itself becomes secondary. However, many see this trend as a positive development that brings fans closer to the teams and even attracts non-basketball enthusiasts interested in following fashion trends set by athletes.

Personal Style and Confidence

For many players, pregame fashion is more than just a look—it’s a source of confidence and self-expression. Kathryn Westbeld, a Mercury forward, says the process has become an integral part of her routine. “Makeup, hair, outfit, like, it’s all very important,” she said. “You look good, you feel good, and hopefully you play good.”

Some players take their pregame outfits seriously, planning them well in advance or working with stylists to elevate their look. Others, like Kalani Brown, embrace the trend for the fun of it. “It’s just something I do to feel good and take pictures,” she said. “It’s a good little energy vibe.”

Global Influences and Team Bonds

Players who have spent time overseas have brought new styles and perspectives to the WNBA. Many have used the league’s platform to showcase their personalities in ways that were not possible in other international leagues. For example, Westbeld, who has played in countries like Australia, Hungary, and Italy, has incorporated global fashion elements into her pregame attire.

“This is interesting because the European style is so different,” she said. “Outside of basketball, I’ve always enjoyed watching and finding different styles, and kind of creating it into my own.”

The WNBA’s new era of tunnel walks has also helped strengthen team bonds. Players have found common ground through shared fashion experiences, building camaraderie both on and off the court. Kahleah Copper, a Mercury forward, praised the sense of connection among teammates. “It’s great. I think that, you know, from day one we’ve been spending a lot of time together,” she said. “Whether it’s on the court, on the road, here doing some team stuff … it’s been pretty cool, you know, getting to know everybody.”