Tamika Newhouse sits down with Filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood for the First-Ever Love & Basketball Collection
As the founder of Black Writers Weekend, I’m Tamika Newhouse — and I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Gina Prince-Bythewood and Esther Wallace to talk about their powerful new collaboration inspired by Love & Basketball. As someone who has adored this film since I first experienced its storytelling magic, being able to speak with the visionary behind it and the creative force reshaping women’s sports culture was nothing short of exhilarating.
Today Playa Society — the streetwear and culture brand known for uplifting women’s sports — officially launched First Quarter: Ball Better Than You, the first capsule in a year-long collaboration created in partnership with Love & Basketball filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood, to honor the film’s enduring cultural impact for over 25 years.
This historic collection marks the first time Love & Basketball has ever officially licensed its logo and assets, ushering in a new era of storytelling, nostalgia, and sports culture. Growing up deeply inspired by black stories, I’ve always admired the way Love and Basketball captured Black love with honesty, passion, and intention. Its storytelling shaped how I root for authentic narratives — ones that elevate our experiences and celebrate the tenderness and complexity within our relationships.
The rise in visibility, respect, and acknowledgment for women athletes — especially in basketball — is long overdue. Today’s talent is undeniable, and players like A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Angel Reese continue to shift culture both on and off the court. Their influence makes collaborations like this even more meaningful, as the world finally begins to fully recognize the power and excellence of women in the game.
The new collection honors that legacy through bold graphics, nostalgic imagery, and reimagined lines that defined a generation of basketball fans — including the iconic “Ball Better Than You” statement that still resonates today.
To bring the capsule to life, Playa Society tapped New York Liberty stars Natasha Cloud and Isabelle Harrison, who appear in their first-ever photoshoot together as a couple. Their chemistry and connection beautifully embody today’s version of a basketball love story — one that keeps alive the spirit of what Love & Basketball gave us 25 years ago.
As part of the celebration, I spoke with Gina Prince-Bythewood and Esther Wallace about the film’s cultural resonance, this historic partnership, and how their shared dedication to uplifting women’s voices continues to shape the next generation of creators. Their passion, vision, and collaborative genius are a testament to why this collection — and this moment — matters.. You can watch the full interview on my Youtube channel HERE.
“Playa Society was born because Love & Basketball showed me what it looked like for a woman to take up space in sports — unapologetically. Monica Wright inspired an entire generation, including me,” said Esther Wallace, Founder of Playa Society. “Now, as I collaborate with Gina, her impact is another layer, and it’s an incredible honor. This collection is a reflection of the influence this film has had on culture, athletics, and storytelling, and I’m proud that Playa Society can help bring that legacy into the present.”
“I am so humbled by the enduring impact of the film on both ballers and non-athletes, who are inspired by characters who believe in themselves enough to fight for an impossible dream. I have been enamored by the dopeness and swagger of Esther Wallace and her Playa Society brand and knew I could trust her with the film’s legacy. It has been an inspiring collaboration,” said Gina Prince-Bythewood, Love & Basketball filmmaker.
Credit: Dominique Oliveto
Shop the full collection HERE
