Traditionally, February is a marquee time for American sports with the NFL’s Super Bowl bookended by the NHL and NBA All-Star Games at either end of the month. Of course, the most avid of fans are focused on the on-field action. But sometimes, the NBA All-Star Game turns out to be nothing more than a blowout exhibition, the NHL All-Star festivities lack fan engagement, and one of the most entertaining Super Bowls in recent history is marred by a devastatingly anti-climactic conclusion. Luckily, we’re left with the consolation prize of alternative entertainment (and no, I’m not referring to the oddly evangelical Super Bowl commercials). Athletes have taken to using these high-profile events to show off their own personal style, with Canadian athletes being no exception. From All-Star tunnel entrances to vacation photoshoots, these eight Canadian athletes left their stamp on the biggest month in sports.
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Ever since being drafted by the Thunder in 2018, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander immediately became one of the league’s foremost style authorities. So, it’s only natural that he made sure to make the most out of his All-Star debut with this Magic Johnson-esque fur coat and leather pants.
But just in case the coat didn’t turn enough heads, Shai complemented the look with an audacious Louis Vuitton briefcase, which he apparently left empty. Personally, I would’ve gone the Tarantino route and left the mystery to the imagination.
Pierre Engvall
Once again, I’m featuring a Leafs’ menswear moment that doesn’t involve Auston Matthews or Mitch Marner doing their best Mumford & Sons impression, which might legitimize or delegitimize this list entirely in the eyes of Toronto fans. Either way, another Leaf has once again stolen the show this month.
His name: Pierre Engvall. His weapon of choice: simple taste and exceptional tailoring.
Engvall arrived at Scotiabank Arena earlier this month in a classic menswear look with some really cool, contemporary twists. A double-breasted pinstripe suit is far more timeless than it’s given credit for but works especially well when it’s worn by a 6’5″ hockey player. Expertly tailored and paired with a clean pair of white Nikes, Engvall’s pregame look is proof that, sometimes, less is more.
Sarah Nurse
Just hours before taking over the NHL’s Skills Challenge at All-Star Weekend with a now-viral highlight, Sarah Nurse took to the red carpet. Rocking an all-white jumpsuit accessorized by a gold watch, bracelet, and necklace, Nurse stole the show that weekend both on and off the ice.
Pascal Siakam
This might not be the most outlandish outfit of the month but this look really reflects Pascal’s game as a whole this season: reliable. Clean white tee, fitted black pants, black toque. Simple. Basic. Undeniably stylish.
Of course, I’m leaving out a crucial detail: a pair of Nike Dunk Low GS White Orange Black. These shoes don’t necessarily break the bank compared to other Dunks but they stand out just the same. I just love the heavy contrast between the orange, white, and black, especially when combined with basic white and black staples.
Jonathan Kongbo
Typically, having your car be your best accessory isn’t a strong indicator of fashion sense, but former Winnipeg Blue Bomber and current Denver Bronco defensive end is the rare exception. Rocking a pair of silver Adidas, a classic Rolex, and a simple but well-crafted black jacket, Kongbo is only outdone by the Mercedes-Benz G-Class behind him.
Bianca Andreescu
Kicking off the month in style, Canadian women’s tennis star Bianca Andreescu enjoyed her downtime during the 2023 Thailand Open in this vibrant dress and heels. It might be hard to make them out from afar, but ordained with a mix of cats and wildflowers, Andreescu’s dress made for such a fun splash of self-expression amidst a high-pressure tournament.
Bennedict Mathurin
Despite falling under the radar this season, Canada’s own Bennedict Mathurin has had a really special first half of the NBA season for the Indiana Pacers, leading him to highlight the NBA’s Rising Stars Challenge during All-Star Weekend. Of course, while the rookie was sure to put on a show alongside fellow Canadian teammate Andrew Nembhard, Mathurin also made sure to borrow some of Shai’s spotlight off the court as well with this stunning Hermes jacket, gold necklace, and Prada shades.
Iké Ugbo
Canadian soccer star Iké Ugbo isn’t one to shy away from a bold fashion statement, as is often the case in the sport. Rocking vintage Kapital Kountry satin skeleton pants and a Real Bad Man t-shirt from Spiritual Base Music, Ugbo’s outfit reflects the underground, vogue style of someone who follows the beat of their own drum.
