AFCON 2025
At the 2025 WNBA Draft, Kiki Iriafen made a powerful statement that transcended basketball. Selected fourth overall by the Washington Mystics, the Nigerian-American forward captivated audiences not only with her athletic prowess but also with a striking fashion choice that celebrated her cultural roots.
Iriafen donned a custom gold gown designed by Nigerian designer Nneka Alexander, turning the orange carpet into a vibrant showcase of heritage and style.
The ensemble, described by fans as exuding “THE MIDAS TOUCH,” was more than a fashion statement—it was a tribute to her Nigerian lineage and a nod to the rich tapestry of African culture.
Born to Nigerian parents, Yemi and Harrison Iriafen, Kiki has consistently embraced her heritage. Her connection to Nigeria is evident in various facets of her life, from her academic pursuits to her social media presence.
In a recent Instagram post, she and her USC teammates celebrated their roots by dancing to Nigerian music, captioning the video, “Naija Babes Are Back!! 🇳🇬”.
Off the court, Iriafen’s ambitions reflect a deep commitment to her heritage and ccommunity.
With a background in design engineering from Stanford and a master’s in entrepreneurship and innovation from USC, she aspires to leverage her education to address women’s health issues in Nigeria.
