Kyle Kuzma on Teaming with David Yurman and His Viral Game-Day Style: 'Thinking Outside the Box' (Exclusive)

Kuzma, who is one of seven NBA players the iconic jewelry company tapped as a new global ambassador, also worked with the brand on a docuseries about his life

<p>Brittney Butler</p> Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

Brittney Butler

Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

Kyle Kuzma always stands out in a crowd — and not just because the Washington Wizards forward, 28, is six-foot-nine.

The NBA star’s style gets everyone talking. It’s also gotten the attention of jewelry company David Yurman, which named him a global ambassador.

Kuzma is one of seven professional basketball players to score the title. The other athletes are: Seth Curry, Jalen Green, Josh Hart, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kevin Love and D’Angelo Russell.

“I’m so excited to be a part of such a talented group of athletes who share the same appreciation of art and craftsmanship that David Yurman represents,” Kuzma tells PEOPLE exclusively. “It’s been fascinating to see how each of us brings our own personal style and taste to the jewelry collections.”

<p>Brittney Butler</p> Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

Brittney Butler

Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

Kuzma shares that he’s “always had a passion for fashion and accessorizing.”

“It actually came from my grandmother. When she’d take me to church every Sunday as a kid and we’d get all dressed up.”

“But it wasn't until I joined the league [that] I was able to really use fashion as a form of self-expression," he adds. "Basketball has really allowed me to have a platform where I showcase my individuality and creativity both on and off the court.”

Kuzma says his first memory of David Yurman has a connection to basketball, too.

“[It] goes back to seeing some of the NBA veterans rocking their pieces in their tunnel look fits. I remember admiring how the jewelry stood out and it made me realize that David Yurman pieces are not just accessories; they're statements that can elevate any outfit,” he shares.

Related: Kyle Kuzma Wants to Hang His 'Iconic' Pink Sweater in His Home: 'The Entire World Was Talking About It'

For Kuzma, the brand is all about “craftsmanship and timeless style” so partnering together is a natural fit.

“Their pieces are bold and refined, which mirrors how I like to approach my game and my fashion.”

Kuzma regards jewelry as another way for him to showcase his many sides. “I just enjoy being creative when putting together my fits and jewelry helps me do that. With ever fit I wear, [it] adds another layer of flair and confidence. David Yurman gets that vibe which fits my style perfectly.”

The NBA star gravitates toward the brand’s Curb Chain collection. “The design is so timeless and classic that it complements my personal style. You can wear the pieces layered or alone and it immediately elevates any fit,” he says.

<p>Brittney Butler</p> Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

Brittney Butler

Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

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In addition to the campaign, which sees the players in the aforementioned collection as well as David Yurman’s Chevron and Spiritual Beads pieces, the brand also created an original three-part docuseries, featuring Green, Kuzma and Russell.

Kuzma is forever grateful for the opportunity to share who he is with the world.

“Growing up I always dreamed of being where I am today and working with a brand like David Yurman to tell my story was a surreal moment for me. David Yurman did such a great job showing who I am I can’t thank them enough for bringing this vision to life.”

<p>Brittney Butler</p> Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

Brittney Butler

Kyle Kuzma for David Yurman

The athlete hopes in watching his episode, “Own the Spotlight,” his fans “take away the importance of self-expression and confidence.”

“Whether through sports or style, owning the spotlight means being true to yourself and embracing what makes you unique,” he says.

Related: Winnie Harlow and Kyle Kuzma's Relationship Timeline

While Kuzma’s style is on point on its own, his fashion moments with girlfriend Winnie Harlow are a total slam dunk.

“It’s always fun coordinating fits with Winnie,” Kuzma says. “A recent style moment I loved was at the amfAR Gala at Cannes this summer. It was elegant and classy, but with our own personal unique touch and style. And of course, I needed to top my look off with the David Yurman Curb Chain necklaces.”

<p>Gisela Schober/Getty</p> Kyle Kuzma and Winnie Harlow attend the 2024 amfAR Cannes Gala.

Gisela Schober/Getty

Kyle Kuzma and Winnie Harlow attend the 2024 amfAR Cannes Gala.

Kuzma knows the attention his game-day looks get.  He chalks them up to his creative POV.

“I love thinking outside the box and taking risks in fashion. Styling a fit is all about confidence and how it makes you feel. When you look good, you feel good. So I like to choose fits that allow me to walk into game day feeling empowered and ready to go.”

It’s a philosophy he hopes anyone looking to step up their style game can lean into.

“Don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone with expressing yourself. Find pieces that you like and make you feel good. That’s what matters.”

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