A’ja Wilson Makes Feelings Clear About Malia Obama’s Nike Involvement

Malia Obama, former President Barack Obama’s eldest daughter, helped create a pair of social media videos that highlighted Wilson’s journey and personality.

One of the videos featured a playful moment with a young actress teaching Wilson how to clap along to a new version of the rhyme “Miss Mary Mack,” with lyrics praising the basketball star’s career.

In another clip, Obama directed Wilson in an interview at a local barbecue spot in Columbia, South Carolina—Wilson’s hometown.

The ads are tied to the release of Wilson’s first signature shoe, the A’One, which launched May 6. The first version, called “Pink A’ura,” sold out within minutes.

Wilson’s shoe is more than just footwear—it’s part of her legacy. After a historic 2024 season where she set records in scoring, blocks and rebounds, Wilson was named WNBA MVP for the third time and helped lead the Aces to back-to-back titles. She was also the MVP of Team USA at the 2024 Olympics.

“When you see young girls and boys want to wear your shoe, want to be a part of your journey and your legacy, that's what it's truly all about for me,” Wilson told People during Final Four weekend.

Wilson is also releasing a free children’s book later this month titled “The Best is Yet to Come,” in partnership with Nike and Rebel Girls.

Meanwhile, Obama’s work on the videos adds to her growing resume as a filmmaker. After graduating from Harvard, she has worked on shows like “Swarm” and “Girls.” 

In 2023, she directed “The Heart,” a short film that earned recognition at film festivals like Sundance and Telluride.

With Malia Obama behind the camera and A’ja Wilson in the spotlight, this collaboration merges sports, culture and storytelling in a unique way.