Professional pickleball continues to raise the bar in the style department, thanks to fashion-forward brands like 11NIL and trendsetting athletes like Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black.

11NIL recently announced that Johnson and Black played a key role in designing one of the brand’s newest pieces: the Rome 'Jorja' Mesh Bubble Dress. Johnson helped create the original concept, while Black worked to refine the final design.

The dress embodies everything fans have come to love about 11NIL, featuring corset-inspired detailing, mesh paneling, a front zipper, and a playful bubble hem. Available in both white and a standout yellow colorway, the look blends seamlessly with the rest of the brand’s collection while perfectly reflecting Johnson and Black’s signature on-court style.

Some of the duo’s most memorable fashion moments have come while wearing 11NIL, making this collaboration feel like a natural next step. After showcasing a variety of the brand’s silhouettes and styles throughout their careers, the pair finally had the opportunity to put their own creative stamp on a design.

The result is fresh, confident, and undeniably fun. The dresses strike a balance between youthful energy and bold sophistication, qualities that mirror both the athletes themselves and the 11NIL brand. And judging by the campaign photos, the collaboration is every bit as fierce as fans would expect.

“The Rome 'Jorja' Bubble Dress was designed with them, for them, and it shows,” detailed 11NIL on Instagram.

What I love most about this collaboration is that Johnson and Black were involved in the creative process behind the dress. Black has always had a strong sense of style and has been one of pickleball’s standout fashion figures from the very beginning. Johnson, on the other hand, has shared that fashion is a newer passion for her.

That’s what makes this collaboration so exciting. It’s been fun to watch Johnson’s interest in fashion grow over the years, and now she’s reached a point where she’s helping design her own on-court looks. Seeing how much clothing and personal style have become a part of her journey adds another layer to this partnership and makes the final product feel even more meaningful.

Beyond the design itself, there’s something reassuring about knowing this dress was created by two of the best players in the sport. If it performs at the highest level of professional pickleball, then it’s certainly a piece worth considering for recreational play as well. Fashion-forward and functional pickleball apparel? That’s an easy yes from me.

What makes this collaboration especially exciting is that it feels like the beginning of something much bigger. My mind is already racing with possibilities—coordinated warm-up sets, stylish off-court collections, even a line of chic accessories. I could easily envision an entire Johnson or Black collection that continues to push pickleball fashion forward and bring a fresh level of sophistication to the sport.

For years, tennis has dominated the conversation around fashionable court apparel, but pickleball is quickly carving out its own identity. And if collaborations like this are any indication, the sport’s style evolution is only just getting started.

Some people may dismiss fashion on the pickleball court as unimportant, but when the game's top athletes are investing time and creativity into what they wear, it shows that style has become part of the culture. There’s something to be said for stepping onto the court feeling confident, comfortable, and completely yourself.

I genuinely hope this is only the first chapter of collaborations like this. 

To keep up to date on all things pickleball, follow us on Instagram.