Painting Magic: Gabby Anderson | IMG Academy Basketball

When student-athletes come to IMG Academy, they’re expected to work hard in sport and in the classroom. For Gabby Anderson, it’s also about strengthening her skills as an artist and entrepreneur. “The total work hours is kind of difficult because I balance it with school and my sport, and I also do other projects and shoes as well.”

Gabby’s custom shoes have been worn by WNBA greats like Sue Bird and the Texas A&M Women’s basketball team. Even with such big wins, she doesn’t let it go to her head. “Art for me is a connector. So personally for me, whenever I get a big call, I try not to get my hopes up.”

Recently, Gabby received a special request from Orlando Magic point guard R.J. Hampton. He wanted to honor his late coach and his hometown of Little Elm, Texas. Gabby jumped on the chance to create something for an NBA player.

“This was a really big opportunity for me because I have wanted to branch out into the NBA,” Gabby says, “I get lots of coaches and other players from the WNBA, high school, all in the women’s program. “So I was very excited once I got the call from the Orlando Magic.”
 

This exciting venture isn’t just a personal win for Gabby. She hopes to inspire others. “I feel revolutionary. I feel like I’m taking a step toward something that hasn’t happened quite yet. I know there are other female customizers and I think they’re amazing. I think it’s very important that we pave the way for other young ladies to figure that out.”

Watch the video to get the full story on Gabby’s process of how she develops her custom designs. To sign up for a basketball camp or learn more about our other programs, check out the links below.