In a staggering leap toward merging fashion with sports performance, Coach and the WNBA have announced an influential multiyear partnership that positions the retail brand on the court as the league’s official handbag partner. 

Courtesy of Coach

The partnership, launched April 14th at the 2025 WNBA Draft in New York City, brings Coach’s “Courage to Be Real” mission courtside, unearthing a new era of players who are redefining the game and what identity can show up as. The Orange Carpet, presented by Coach, kicked off the season with future stars walking proud of where they stand today while dressed to impress. 

Coach plans to magnify the voices and style of five standout prospects – Paige Bueckers, Hailey Van Lith, Aneesah Marrow, Kiki Iriafen, and Sonnia Citron – athletes who prove that personal style and identity can go hand in hand with athletic grit. 

From buzzer-beaters to eye-catching style choices, this partnership is entrenched in the belief system that self-expression is a form of power. Coach plans to present WNBA Pride, honoring the LGBTQ+ community with nationwide content, events, and exclusive stories celebrating love and identity. 

“Coach and the WNBA share a belief in the power of self-expression,” said Coach Chief Marketing Officer Joon Silverstein. “We’re excited to partner with this league, an organization that uniquely champions individuality, and to support these courageous athletes who are breaking molds both on and off the court, inspiring our audiences to embrace the many possibilities of who they are and who they can be.” 

From the Orange Carpet to All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis, the message is clear: self-expression is the new uniform. Thanks to Coach and the WNBA, the runway now starts at center court.