Iowa's Caitlin Clark Sends Chiefs-Themed Signature Shoes to Andy Reid, NFL Stars React

Iowa native and WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark surprised Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid with a custom pair of her new Nike signature sneakers, designed in Chiefs colors, ahead of their official release. The gesture has sparked excitement across the Chiefs organization, with players and fans alike praising the Indiana Fever star's tribute to her childhood team.

The shoes, part of Clark's debut Nike Caitlin 1 line launching October 1, feature a red and yellow design that mirrors the Chiefs' iconic look. The Chiefs' official Instagram account shared a video of Reid unboxing the gift, captioning it: “Big Red was the first to receive CC's new Chiefs-inspired shoes.”

Why Caitlin Clark Sent the Chiefs Coach Custom Sneakers

Clark, who grew up in West Des Moines, Iowa, has been a lifelong Chiefs fan. The team is based in Kansas City, roughly 200 miles from her home state, and her affection for the franchise has been well-documented. She has attended Chiefs playoff games, appeared on podcasts with Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce, and openly discussed her admiration for the team's stars.

During last year's New Heights podcast appearance, Clark joked that she hoped Reid would one day wear her shoes on the sidelines. That wish has now become a reality.

“I'm a huge Chiefs fan, and Taylor is a huge Chiefs fan,” Clark told the Swarmcast podcast last year. “Taylor is very sweet and very kind, and it's a good reminder that people in our position are very normal. We enjoy watching sports and hanging out with our friends. It puts a great perspective on life.”

Andy Reid's Reaction to the Custom Caitlin Clark Shoes

Reid, known affectionately as “Big Red,” appeared genuinely moved by the gift. In the video shared by the Chiefs, he thanked Clark directly.

“Man, I got my new 'Sea of Red' Caitlin 1s right here, especially from Caitlin Clark, man,” Reid said. “Oh, God, I appreciate you, girl. All the ladies of the WNBA, you guys are unbelievable, man. Keep cranking. Love watching you. Caitlin, I love the color, man. Look at these things. It's the same color you wear, and here we are. Chiefs, love it, baby.”

Clark responded on Instagram with a simple, enthusiastic message: “SCREAMINGGGG!!!!!!!!!”

Chiefs Players React to Caitlin Clark's Gift

The moment quickly made its way through the Chiefs locker room, where several players weighed in on social media.

• Travis Kelce commented: “Fire up!!!!”
• Patrick Mahomes posted three flame emojis.
• Tyquan Thornton called the shoes “fire.”
• Gracie Hunt, daughter of Chiefs owner Clark Hunt, wrote: “Epic.”

Fans also joined in, with one commenting: “I fully expect him to wear these on the sidelines.” Another wrote: “Those are pretty awesome!!”

The Nike Caitlin 1 'Chiefs' Sneaker Design

The custom sneaker, unofficially dubbed the Nike Caitlin 1 “Chiefs,” blends red and yellow across the upper. Clark's signature CC logo and the Nike Swoosh appear in metallic tones, with the number 22 displayed in gold on the laces. The outsole is a gold-yellow finish, completing the Kansas City-inspired look.

Six colorways of the Nike Caitlin 1 have been unveiled ahead of the October 1 launch, with Clark sharing additional previews on her Instagram story. The “Chiefs” edition, however, has already captured the attention of the sports world.

What This Means for Iowa and Chiefs Fans

For Iowans, Clark's gesture is a point of pride. The former University of Iowa standout has become one of the most recognizable athletes in the country, and her connection to the Chiefs reinforces the strong regional ties between Iowa and Kansas City sports culture.

Clark's rise in the WNBA has been meteoric, and her ability to bridge the worlds of basketball and football has endeared her to fans across the Midwest. The custom sneakers are a testament to her authenticity and her willingness to celebrate her roots.

As the Chiefs prepare for the 2026 NFL season, Reid now has a one-of-a-kind pair of sneakers to add to his collection. Whether he wears them on the sidelines remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the moment has already become a memorable chapter in the growing friendship between Iowa's favorite daughter and Kansas City's beloved coach.

Photo: EssentiallySports