News Summary
Angel Reese, star player for the Chicago Sky, becomes the first professional athlete to walk in Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, showcasing her confidence and breaking barriers in the fashion industry. Her journey reflects a commitment to diversity and empowerment while navigating personal and professional challenges. Reese emphasizes a multidimensional identity, advocating for more representation in sports and entertainment.
Chicago, IL — Angel Reese Breaks Barriers and Makes History as First Pro Athlete in Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show
Angel Reese, a star player for the WNBA’s Chicago Sky, has recently achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first professional athlete to walk in the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Her appearance marks a historic moment, reflecting changing trends toward diversity and empowerment in the fashion industry.
Reese’s Bold Fashion Debut and Personal Journey
Reese graced the runway wearing a pink floral lingerie set complemented by the signature wings, showcasing her at her most confident and stylish. Her participation was celebrated widely, with notable praise from industry experts who highlighted her natural presence and poise on stage. The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which relaunched after a hiatus, featured a variety of performances and showcased diverse models and talent, emphasizing a message of inclusion and innovation.
Throughout her career, Reese emphasized her journey from humble beginnings—working in fast-food restaurants—to becoming a professional athlete and now a fashion model. She spoke openly about her multidimensional identity, underscoring her belief in expanding her horizons beyond basketball.
Reese’s Media Fears and Recent Personal Challenges
Despite her groundbreaking runway debut, Reese has faced personal and professional challenges recently. She has been notably reticent when speaking with media outlets, avoiding questions about her recent outspoken comments on her team and the sport. Reese expressed during her podcast, “Unapologetically Angel”, her fears of media interactions, citing concerns about her words being misinterpreted and her tendency to prefer paying fines over engaging with reporters.
Her outspoken moments include a controversial incident during the 2023 NCAA championship game, where she taunted Caitlin Clark, leading to criticism. Additionally, at the end of the 2025 WNBA season, she publicly criticized her team’s performance, stating, “I’m not settling for the same s— we did this year,” and calling for roster improvements. Although she later apologized for her directness, she faced repercussions, including a suspension for the first half of a subsequent game due to comments deemed detrimental to her team.
On top of her team-related criticisms, Reese was involved in an investigation by the WNBA concerning alleged “hateful” comments made during a season-opening game against Caitlin Clark’s Connecticut Fever, which was ultimately dismissed after authorities found insufficient evidence. Furthermore, Reese has publicly accused fans associated with Clark of racism and detailed harassment she experienced, including receiving AI-generated explicit images sent to her family.
Support and Future Outlook
Reese’s appearance at Victoria’s Secret has garnered widespread support from peers and fans alike. Many WNBA stars and celebrities took to social media to praise her for her courage and versatility. Veteran player and former league MVP, Lisa Leslie, emphasized the importance of mentorship and leadership, citing Reese’s rising potential within the league and her evolving role in media and entertainment.
Reese has publicly spoken about her preparations for the modeling debut, having hired a modeling coach to refine her runway walk and stage presence. She noted that her journey into fashion signifies her effort to be a multidimensional figure, breaking the stereotype of athletes confined solely to sports.
Implications for the Franchise and Future Plans
Speculation persists regarding Reese’s future with the Chicago Sky amid her vocal critiques of the franchise’s performance and roster. Her comments have sparked discussions about possible trade considerations and her ongoing role within the team. Nevertheless, her historic runway appearance and her advocacy for diversity remain central themes of her recent public profile.
Summary
Angel Reese has combined her athletic success with groundbreaking achievements in fashion, becoming a trailblazer for athletes crossing into other industries. She continues to navigate media challenges, personal growth, and professional opportunities while embodying a multifaceted identity that resonates globally. Her participation in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show signifies a notable step forward for representation, diversity, and the evolving perception of women’s sports and celebrity culture.
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Additional Resources
- CBS News
- ClutchPoints
- Bleacher Report
- Newsweek
- Sports Illustrated
- Wikipedia: Angel Reese
- Google Search: Angel Reese
- Google Scholar: Angel Reese
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Angel Reese
- Google News: Angel Reese
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