Iowa Women's Basketball Receives Custom Nike Shoes Ahead of March Madness

12-year-old Harper Stribe worked with the brand to design a special pair for the team to wear.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:04pm

The University of Iowa women's basketball team received a unique gift ahead of the NCAA March Madness tournament - custom Nike shoes designed by 12-year-old Harper Stribe. Harper, an honorary member of the team, collaborated with Nike to create a special pair of shoes for the Hawkeyes to wear during the big tournament.

Why it matters

The personalized shoes are a heartwarming gesture that showcases the team's connection with their young fan. It also highlights Nike's commitment to supporting women's sports and engaging with the community. The custom shoes could provide an extra boost of motivation and team spirit as the Hawkeyes compete in the high-stakes March Madness tournament.

The details

Harper Stribe, a 12-year-old girl, worked closely with Nike to design a one-of-a-kind pair of shoes for the University of Iowa women's basketball team. The shoes feature the team's colors and logos, as well as personal touches from Harper. The team was presented with the custom kicks during a special ceremony ahead of Selection Sunday, where the NCAA tournament field is announced.

  • The custom shoes were presented to the team on Sunday, March 15, 2026, ahead of the NCAA March Madness tournament.
  • The University of Iowa women's basketball team will wear the custom Nike shoes during the 2026 NCAA March Madness tournament.

The players

Taylor McCabe

A player on the University of Iowa women's basketball team.

Harper Stribe

A 12-year-old girl who worked with Nike to design a custom pair of shoes for the University of Iowa women's basketball team.

Nike

The sportswear brand that collaborated with Harper Stribe to create the custom shoes for the University of Iowa women's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This heartwarming gesture showcases the strong bond between the University of Iowa women's basketball team and their young fan, Harper Stribe. The custom Nike shoes designed by Harper are a unique and meaningful way for the team to connect with their community and enter the high-stakes March Madness tournament with extra motivation and team spirit.