At just 24, Rickea Jackson is already making waves in the WNBA — and not just with her game. The Tennessee standout turned Los Angeles Sparks forward has quickly become one of the league’s most exciting young players, blending versatility on the court with a keen sense of style and business savvy off it.
Sitting courtside, Jackson radiates confidence as she reflects on her journey so far. “The second half of my rookie season was when I really felt like I belonged,” she says. “Once I got comfortable, learned the pace of the game, and started matching up with players night after night, I felt like I could really hold my own.”
That confidence shows. Whether she’s dominating in a matchup against the Seattle Storm (“It’s always a battle,” she laughs) or stepping off the team bus in a head-turning tunnel fit, Jackson is rewriting the narrative of what a young athlete can achieve.
More Than Just Buckets
Jackson’s style is as bold as her play. Her pre-game fashion and makeup moments have earned her fans far beyond basketball, something she takes pride in. “I treat game day like work,” she says. “I want to put my best foot forward at all times, especially if I’m looking to branch out and partner with brands. It’s important to show up as your authentic self, but still have fun with it.”
That authenticity is what led to her partnership with Skechers, where she’s already making an impact with the release of their Full Court Press collection and her own custom player exclusives. “Skechers makes me feel seen,” Jackson says. “They care about me as a person, not just an athlete. Being in those rooms, brainstorming ideas, and seeing my vision come to life in a shoe is an amazing feeling.”
Her favorite PE? A pair inspired by her nickname, Beauty and the Beast. Designed with roses, blue and gold accents, and fierce detailing, it’s a perfect reflection of Jackson’s balance of grace and power.
A Role Model for the Next Generation
For Jackson, building her brand is about more than endorsement deals — it’s about showing young athletes that they can do it all. “I want to inspire them to know that you’re not just a basketball player,” she says. “You can chase other dreams while pursuing basketball. Keep the main thing the main thing, but don’t be afraid to branch out and balance your life.”
That message feels especially timely as the WNBA experiences unprecedented growth. With soaring viewership, improved travel accommodations, and a new collective bargaining agreement on the horizon, Jackson is stepping into a league in transformation. “The vets are the ones who deserve this,” she says. “They’ve been putting blood, sweat, and tears into this league for 25 years. We’re just continuing the legacy they built.”
Just Getting Started
With her dynamic play, standout personality, and signature style, Rickea Jackson is positioning herself as one of the WNBA’s future stars. And if her trajectory is any indication, this is only the beginning.
“I’m grateful for this moment,” she says, smiling. “The energy around women’s basketball is incredible right now, and I just want to keep building on that, on and off the court.”
Keep your eyes on Jackson — she’s bringing the full court press to everything she does.
