When NBA star Kyle Kuzma first messaged supermodel Winnie Harlow, he had no idea a glitch would hide his words for an entire year. That missed connection set the stage for one of modern sports and fashion's most talked-about romances. Beyond the courtside appearances, designer fashion weeks, and high-profile events, their bond centers on persistence, spontaneous life shifts, and quiet, domestic moments away from the flashing cameras.
From a delayed Instagram DM to a romantic proposal in Turks and Caicos, their journey reveals how two high-profile figures built a steady foundation. Here is a closer look at how Kyle Kuzma and Winnie Harlow carved out a lasting relationship.
The Missed Connection and Quarantine Reconnection
In 2019, Kuzma spotted Harlow online and sent an initial direct message. Due to an Instagram glitch or filter setting, Harlow never saw it. Most people would have moved on, but Kuzma tried again in March 2020 right as global lockdowns began. This time, the message landed.
Harlow noticed a photo he posted and replied. That single response sparked marathon FaceTime sessions lasting up to 24 hours a day. Within a month, Harlow made a massive leap of faith. Leaving Brooklyn behind, she packed up and moved to Los Angeles to quarantine with Kuzma, transforming a virtual spark into an in-person reality almost overnight.
Casual Beginnings to Official Partners
The transition from quarantine housemates to an official couple happened in a very ordinary, unscripted way. Harlow has often shared that it finally dawned on her during a late-night routine. While she was busy applying skin serums and putting on her hair bonnet, Kuzma walked in and casually asked if he could cuddle with his girlfriend.
That offhand label made it official. By June 2020, they stepped into the public eye by sharing beach photos on Instagram, letting fans know they were an item. Unlike many flash-in-the-pan celebrity pairings, they managed to keep much of their day-to-day life grounded, balancing demanding schedules in professional basketball and international modeling.
Shared Passions for Fashion and Travel
What keeps the relationship dynamic is their mutual appreciation for style and culture. Kuzma is well-known across the NBA for pushing fashion boundaries, frequently sitting front row at major fashion weeks. Harlow, a Victoria's Secret and high-fashion staple, shares that exact passion.
They regularly attend high-end charity galas, such as the amfAR Gala during the Cannes Film Festival, coordinating avant-garde looks that dominate style blogs. Beyond the red carpets, they document relaxed getaways, from golf outings in the NBA bubble to tropical birthday celebrations in Jamaica.
Permanent Commitments and Milestone Moments
As their relationship matured past the multi-year mark, both partners found creative ways to signal long-term dedication. In 2023, Harlow got a delicate tattoo of Kuzma's first name behind her ear, while the couple also sported matching minimalist ink of each other's initials paired with hearts.
Support has always run both ways. Harlow is a regular fixture courtside, cheering loudly during games, while Kuzma frequently champions her entrepreneurial ventures, such as her skincare line.
The natural progression of their bond culminated in February 2025. Kuzma proposed during a trip to Turks and Caicos, transforming a private jet cabin with roses and candles before reciting an original poem. He presented her with a custom, self-designed 8.5-carat oval-cut diamond ring, prompting an enthusiastic yes before he even finished the question.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Kyle Kuzma and Winnie Harlow first meet?
They originally connected through Instagram in 2019, though a platform glitch hid the first message. Kuzma messaged her again in March 2020, which successfully started their conversation.
When did Winnie Harlow move in with Kyle Kuzma?
In April 2020, after a month of continuous virtual communication, Harlow relocated from Brooklyn to Los Angeles to quarantine with Kuzma.
Are Kyle Kuzma and Winnie Harlow engaged?
Yes. Kuzma proposed to Harlow in February 2025 during a trip to Turks and Caicos with a custom 8.5-carat diamond ring.
What do they do for work?
Kyle Kuzma is a professional basketball player in the NBA, and Winnie Harlow is a globally recognized fashion model and entrepreneur.
