Malia Obama Directs Nike Ads for A’ja Wilson’s New Shoe Launch

LOS ANGELES, CA — Malia Obama, 26, has made her mark in the film industry by directing two short promotional videos for WNBA star A’ja Wilson’s new signature shoe, the A’One, set to launch on May 6.

Obama’s work showcases her talents in a vibrant way. In one video, a young girl teaches Wilson how to play a clapping game, using lyrics that celebrate the basketball star’s accomplishments. “A’ja Wilson’s on top, top, top. Can’t take her spot, spot, spot,” the girl sings, encouraging Wilson to master the choreography.

The second video features an interview with Wilson at Big T’s Bar-B-Que in Columbia, South Carolina, where she grew up and found success with the University of South Carolina’s basketball team. In a recent conversation with PEOPLE, Wilson expressed her excitement for the shoe launch. “When you see young people wanting to wear your shoe and be part of your journey, that’s what it’s truly all about for me,” she stated.

Obama’s collaboration with Nike aligns with her growing career as a filmmaker. This past February, she was present for the retirement of Wilson’s jersey with the Gamecocks, signaling a noteworthy moment in both their careers. After presenting her short film, The Heart, at the Deauville American Film Festival in France last year, where she received the Young Spirit award, she has gained recognition in the industry.

Amid her success, Obama admitted she was nervous stepping onto the red carpet. “I’m so excited… a little bit terrified, but mostly just excited,” she shared in a TikTok clip post-event. Her father, former President Barack Obama, noted that his daughter strives to establish her identity in the filmmaking world without solely relying on her family’s legacy.

The anticipation leading up to A’ja Wilson’s shoe launch continues to grow, particularly with the buzz surrounding the creative direction by Malia Obama.