Female WNBA athletes are just as multidimensional, multifaceted and dynamic off the court as on it. In a male-dominated sports world, we have to be. Creating career stability and sustainability in a field where we are still advocating for equal pay, commercial opportunities, and visibility means we must be agile, grow our skillsets and strengthen our expertise off the court.

“To expand my knowledge of the corporate world, I recently participated in a work study at adidas.”

I spent my time working with the Social Impact group, which shares my passion for removing barriers to sport for girls. To be very honest, I wasn’t entirely sure what I’d learn or experience besides having the opportunity to immerse myself in the corporate culture of the brand. I did, however, hope to come out of these two weeks with more awareness of how the brand I represent represents me.

The corporate environment is quite different, yet still resonates with parts of the athletic world. It amazes me how creation constantly lives in the corporate space, with departments and teams working together to innovate and ideate ways to lead in product, in the community and in talent.

WNBA player Nneka Ogwumike writing ideas in notebook, adidas, office, creativity, work, ideas, GamePlan A
The collective bargaining agreement Nneka worked on resulted in a contract that improved salaries and benefits for women of the WNBA.
WNBA player Nneka Ogwumike holding sneaker and talking to colleague in the office, creativity, sports, work, collaboration, teamwork, teammates, GamePlan A
The collective bargaining agreement Nneka worked on resulted in a contract that improved salaries and benefits for women of the WNBA.
WNBA player Nneka Ogwumike discusses ideas with colleagues in the workplace, adidas, teamwork, teammates, office, collaboration, creativity, GamePlan A
The collective bargaining agreement Nneka worked on resulted in a contract that improved salaries and benefits for women of the WNBA.
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I loved the connection and corporate camaraderie that pulses through campus. Just like in basketball, the real gold lies in how teammates communicate and trust each other. We may play different roles, but we work together to reach one common goal. It’s also fun and challenging to learn individual and team strengths so we can better understand each other. That’s where hard work, communication and trust develop, making being on any team more about the journey than the result.

“Real change comes from authentic relationships between brands and athletes.”

I felt I was able to contribute to adidas’ game plan by explaining, from an athlete’s perspective, how providing access to courts and equipment, removing stereotypes and creating visibility will break down barriers faced by women in sport.

WNBA player Nneka Ogwumike giving speech on stage in the workplace, adidas, office, leadership, public speaking, confidence, GamePlan A
Learning and sharing experiences can help on shape understanding on both sides.
WNBA player Nneka Ogwumike hugs colleague while smiling happily, teamwork, friendship, collaboration, happy, appreciation, GamePlan A
Learning and sharing experiences can help on shape understanding on both sides.
WNBA player Nneka Ogwumike talks to colleagues in the office, ideas, feedback, teamwork, smiling, collaboration, adidas, GamePlan A
Learning and sharing experiences can help on shape understanding on both sides.
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As a result of my work study, I feel much more connected to the brand. I’ve always known that adidas represents the best parts of me, and I represent the best parts of adidas. Even so, my experience opened my mind and heart to the true impact of what I do. After two weeks, I’ve certainly leveled up as a woman, as an athlete and, of course, as a creator.

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