In the vibrant world of women’s basketball, one name has been making waves both behind and in front of the camera: Nicol Biesek. Known affectionately as Edna by fans, Nicol’s journey from a passionate photographer to an integral part of the WNBA’s culture is a testament to her unique approach and deep connection to the sport.
It all began on a mid-afternoon livestream during the WNBA All-Star Weekend. Courtney Williams, a prominent figure in the league, was hyping up someone offscreen. That someone was Nicol, a woman with an eccentric swagger and an uncanny familiarity with Kings of Leon’s discography. Little did anyone know that this moment would mark the beginning of Nicol’s rise in the world of women’s basketball.
From Player to Photographer
Nicol’s journey in women’s basketball began long before she picked up a camera. As a child, she was captivated by the sport, inspired by players like Lisa Leslie. Her love for basketball led her to play college basketball, where she had the opportunity to play alongside Chelsea Gray. This experience humbled her and gave her a new perspective on the sport.
After her playing days, Nicol discovered her passion for photography. She started with a Canon Rebel XTI, capturing moments with her friends and learning the art of noticing. Her unique approach to photography, which she describes as making photos rather than just taking them, quickly set her apart. She studied photography at The Academy of Art, where she honed her skills and developed her unique style.
Capturing the Essence of Women’s Basketball
Nicol’s love for women’s basketball and her photography skills converged at Sundance in 2026. While shooting for Variety, she had the opportunity to photograph Sue Bird. This experience made her realize the importance of her niche and her role in the growth of women’s basketball. She wanted to position herself as a photographer who could capture the essence of the sport and its players.
Nicol’s approach to photography is deeply rooted in trust and collaboration. She works closely with players, capturing them in their most authentic moments. She believes in going above and beyond for her subjects, ensuring that they feel comfortable and represented in the best possible way. This approach has earned her the trust of players like Sydney Colson and Chelsea Gray, who have become her friends and collaborators.
Championing Queer Stories
Nicol is also passionate about championing the stories of masc-presenting queer women in the WNBA. She believes that these stories often get left behind in mainstream media and that there is a hunger within the queer community to see them represented. Through her photography, Nicol aims to fill this gap and give these players the visibility they deserve.
The StudBudz Connection
Nicol’s journey in women’s basketball took a significant turn when she met Courtney Williams and Natisha Heideman. She first interacted with them for a SLAM cover shoot, where she quickly bonded with Courtney over their shared love for music and dance. This connection led to Nicol becoming a trusted collaborator with the StudBudz, a dynamic duo known for their vibrant streams and deep connection with WNBA players.
During the WNBA All-Star Weekend, Nicol found herself immersed in the StudBudz’ world. She was not just a photographer but a part of the action, dancing and interacting with the players and fans. This experience was a full-circle moment for Nicol, who had always dreamed of being a part of the vibrant culture of women’s basketball.
Nicol’s journey is a testament to her passion, skill, and deep connection to the sport. From playing college basketball to becoming a trusted collaborator with WNBA players, she has carved out a unique space for herself in the world of women’s basketball. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring photographers and basketball enthusiasts alike, showing that with passion and dedication, anything is possible.
