Across the league's Rookies, the Seattle Storm's Nika Mühl has brought her energetic expression of personal style since the Draft. Teaming up with stylist Brittany Hampton, Mühl's tunnel looks include unmissable elements like futuristic sunglasses, strong shoulders, and bold, bra-only looks that command strength. 

While the Filipina-American stylist has previously worked with Russell Westbrook and Victor Cruz, her approach to styling Mühl for the tunnel is guided by female empowerment. Hampton is passionate about making her athletes feel confident but also aware of the greater impact of each look: "When young women see these players in the tunnel, they envision their future in that spotlight."

Hampton hints at how "Nika’s in her edgy era," which translates into brands like MUGLER, Ottolinger and Alexander Wang. With a balance of eye-catching accessories and custom pieces that deliver player storytelling, Hampton and Mühl have been recognized by GQ Sports as the "WNBA's Best-Dressed Rookie." From Hampton's role in Honor The Gift, a much-loved player brand, to working with the next generation of women in sports, Hampton breaks down her approach to cultivating Mühl's style. 

Kirsten Chen: How did you and Nika first get connected?

Brittany Hampton: Nika and I were introduced by Paige Bueckers about a week before the WNBA Draft. She had been following me and finally worked up the courage to send me a DM. When I read it, I felt an instant connection with her!

KC: What are the signature elements of Nika’s style this season?

BH: Going into her rookie year, her signature elements are bold, dynamic, confident, and, most importantly, fearless.

KC: Tell me about the vision for Nika’s style this season. Any inspirations, aesthetics, etc.?

BH: Yes! Nika came to me with a clear vision of what she wanted. She’s one of my most studious clients! She brought ideations, mood boards, color palettes, and even fully executed trend reports. I promised to bring that vision to life.

KC: What is Nika’s go-to style for a lazy, away game? 

BH: ‘Lazy’ isn’t in Nika’s vocabulary. I tried to get her to wear a sweatsuit look, and she declined!

KC: What’s your favorite thing about working with women’s basketball players?

BH: They embody dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Their stories and the paths they are paving for future generations of young women are why I choose to stand beside them.

KC: Tell me about your background of working with Honor The Gift. What did you learn about style and basketball? 

BH: Working with Honor The Gift was a defining moment in my career, especially when it came to styling female athletes. We saw a gap in the market—female athletes didn’t have access to streetwear brands that catered to their height and build. I helped bring the women’s division to light, creating something unique with Russell and the team.

KC: What do you want to see for the future of style in women’s basketball?

BH: I want to see more brands give these athletes the opportunity to collaborate. WNBA players are strong advocates for social justice, so brands partnering with them create a powerful, positive impact.

WNBA reporter Kirsten Chen writes a lifestyle & fashion column on WNBA.com throughout the season and can be reached on Twitter through @hotgothwriter. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the WNBA or its clubs.