When Nneka Ogwumike made her SI Swimsuit debut in 2022 on St. Thomas, she was already a veteran of the WNBA for over a decade. By then, she had proven herself both on and off the court as a significant presence in the league. It seemed like a professional basketball career was the only path she had ever envisioned as a Stanford alumna.
However, during her 2022 photoshoot, she revealed a different side. While in college, she excelled in basketball and contemplated pursuing it professionally, but also considered further studies towards a medical degree. Eventually, she embraced her future in basketball, committing to building a legacy for herself.
Over the years, her legacy has been defined by her significant contributions to the Los Angeles Sparks and her current team, the Seattle Storm. Additionally, she has served as the president of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), advocating for fair compensation and conditions for players in the league.
Today, she recognizes her legacy as part of the WNBPA, contributing to a time when women in sports made a major impact. Ogwumike played a key role in negotiating a collective bargaining agreement with the league in 2020, a moment she considers one of her proudest achievements. She emphasized the importance of listening to people’s experiences and empowering those who have historically been marginalized.
She has always aimed to be the president who turns players’ voices into action. For these reasons and more, Ogwumike exemplifies the inspiring and diverse women welcomed by SI Swimsuit.
In 2022, Ogwumike posed for powerful shots in black swimsuits during her photoshoot in St. Thomas, captured by Laretta Houston. Below are some of the highlights from the day.
