Former Shocker basketball player launches Wichita clothing brand promoting inclusivity
A former Wichita State men’s basketball player is trying to make an impact on the Wichita community through a clothing brand promoting inclusivity.
Wichita native Tony Johnson, who played for the Shockers from 1990-92, has recently launched One4Us, an apparel line inspired by the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which grants equal rights to all citizens.
Johnson and his wife, Tuyet, have made it their passion project to produce high-quality and fashionable clothing while using their brand to help raise awareness on social justice issues in Wichita, like bail bond reform.
“It’s not just for people of color, it’s for anyone who can identify with the mission that we’re trying to accomplish and that’s to include everyone,” Johnson said. “We want to make everyone feel like they’re special and they belong in our society.”
This past weekend the clothing brand hosted its debut event at Knockout Sneaker Boutique, located at 600 E. Douglas. Heights star T.J. Williams, a WSU basketball signee, signed autographs as a brand ambassador.
With the ability to support high school athletes through Name, Image and Likeness, One4Us has made it a priority to connect with local high school athletes to help give back to the community.
Northwest volleyball standout Nina Mitchell is also a brand ambassador, while NFL players and Wichita natives Breece Hall and Davontae Harris have also been seen wearing the brand.
“We want to invest in Wichita athletes and help give these high school athletes a platform to showcase themselves,” Johnson said. “We’re ICT proud, so building those relationships is really important to us. We want all of us to be able to grow and be proud of our city and represent each other and support one another.”
The One4Us brand has its own website, where it sells premium men’s and women’s clothing. Items range from shorts, tank tops and t-shirts to hoodies, joggers and sweatsuits. The apparel can also be found on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok and X.
“We’re learning on the fly as we go, but we’re doing everything possible to do things the right way and putting all of our energy into giving the best product and the best experience to anyone who supports the brand,” Johnson said.
This story was originally published January 25, 2024 at 6:03 AM.
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