Sports Lifestyle

Inside Hibbett's Sold-Out Sophie Cunningham PE Launch Event

Jul 28, 2026

Hibbett and adidas welcomed fans to Romeoville, Illinois, for a special event celebrating the launch of the adidas Crazy Energy "Sophie Cunningham" PE.

More than 100 fans attended the meet-and-greet, giving guests the opportunity to connect with Cunningham, learn more about the inspiration behind her player-exclusive sneaker and celebrate its official launch.

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Ahead of the public event, Hibbett hosted Team Dream Chasers from Rantoul, Illinois, for a private meet-and-greet with Cunningham. The athletes spent time with Sophie, heard firsthand about her journey as a professional athlete and received a pair of her Crazy Energy PE. The experience reflected a shared commitment between Hibbett and adidas to support the next generation of players and celebrate the continued growth of women's basketball.

When the event opened to the public, fans lined up for photos and the chance to meet one of women's basketball's most recognizable personalities. Guests also enjoyed a series of custom activations, including airbrushed cowgirl, trucker and bucket hats, along with a keychain-making station for younger attendees. Shoppers who purchased Sophie's PE received exclusive event gifts while supplies lasted, including a custom Sophie Cunningham t-shirt, branded shoe bag, duffle bag and sling bag. Fans also had the opportunity to enter a raffle for a signed basketball from Cunningham.

During her on-site interview with Complex, Cunningham shared her excitement about receiving her own player-exclusive sneaker and what the moment represents. "I love it. It just speaks volumes to what adidas is doing for the female side of sport," she said.

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The colorway was designed to reflect Cunningham's personality. She described it as bright, full of spunk and "a little feisty"—a fitting match for the energy and confidence she brings to the court. Beyond the bold color palette, the sneaker incorporates several personal touches that make the design uniquely hers. A wavy graphic near the toe box references a matching tattoo shared by Cunningham and her family. The phrase "Giddy Up" appears inside the tongue as a nod to her personality and roots, while an image of Cunningham wearing her signature cowboy hat is featured on the sock liner. Together, the details create a shoe that blends performance with personal storytelling.

The response from consumers was immediate. By the end of launch day, the adidas Crazy Energy "Sophie Cunningham" PE had completely sold out, underscoring the excitement surrounding both the release and Cunningham herself.

From the private meet-and-greet with Team Dream Chasers to a packed store full of fans, the Romeoville event highlighted the growing momentum behind women's basketball and gave consumers the opportunity to connect directly with one of the sport's most recognizable athletes. For everyone who attended, it was a chance to experience the story behind the shoe—and meet the athlete who inspired it.

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