Angel Reese, the 23-year-old WNBA star, made headlines by becoming the first professional athlete ever to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in 2025. She donned the iconic angel wings and strutted the runway in New York, joining the “Wings Reveal” lineup.
Reese had attended the show in past years as a fan. Now, she steps into a new role, bridging sports and high fashion in a move that many consider groundbreaking.
The Runway Debut
Reese appeared in two standout looks during the show. For her first appearance, she wore a pink floral lingerie set accented with lace and blushing tones. Later, she wore a cut-out tee over lingerie, paired with dramatic white wings.
She hired a modeling coach leading up to the show and practiced her walk like she would train for a basketball game. She posted earlier that she “walk, sleep, hoop,” a phrase she repeated in interviews to show how deeply she balances her identities.
Reese described the moment as “surreal” and “full circle,” recalling how she once dreamed of walking the very runway she now stood on.
Significance and Crossover Appeal
Reese’s appearance marks a major crossover between athletics and fashion. By stepping into a traditionally model-led space, she challenges norms about who belongs on high fashion runways. Her presence opens doors for athletes, especially women, to explore creative and cultural spaces beyond sports.
Furthermore, her crossover resonates with fans who admire her not only for her performance on the court but also for her confidence, style, and ambition. The move also elevates Reese’s personal brand and expands her influence in both industries.
Reception and Reactions
Many fans and commentators applauded Reese’s bold move. Fashion insiders called it a landmark moment, while sports media praised her versatility. Some critics raised questions about whether athletes will increasingly appear in major fashion campaigns. Nevertheless, Reese’s debut received strong support, with many calling it a statement of empowerment.
Her modeling work does not take away from her athletic identity; instead, it complements it. She shows that an athlete can carry strength, elegance, and versatility all at once.
What Comes Next
With this historic runway appearance now behind her, Reese will likely receive more fashion and brand opportunities. She may appear in future ad campaigns, designer collaborations, or ambassador roles. Meanwhile, her WNBA career continues, giving her a platform to inspire on multiple fronts.
If she continues to blur the boundaries between sport and style, Reese could become a trendsetter for future generations of athletes who want to pursue multiple passions.
Conclusion
Angel Reese’s debut at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show confirmed she is more than a basketball star. She is a cultural icon in the making. As the first professional athlete to walk the VS runway, she challenges expectations and broadens what is possible. Her confidence, ambition, and crossover success make this milestone both powerful and inspiring. Reese’s runway triumph reminds us that strength and elegance can coexist and that barriers can be broken with vision and boldness.
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