WNBA’s Angel Reese to Make History as First Pro Athlete in the VS Fashion Show
It’s only fitting for Angel Reese to step into the role of a Victoria’s Secret angel.
On Wednesday, October 15, in New York City, Reese will make history by becoming the first professional athlete to grace the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway.
The Chicago Sky star revealed this exciting news on her Instagram on Thursday, October 9.
“Stepping into a dream: From Angel to a Victoria Secret ANGEL,” Reese, 23, shared, posting behind-the-scenes snapshots from a Victoria’s Secret photoshoot. “I’m finally getting my wings. I’ll be walking in the Victoria’s Secret 2025 runway show for the first time, and it feels like destiny. Heels on, wings ready… Catch me on the runway.”
The Victoria’s Secret social media account also celebrated Reese’s new role.
“Angel Reese, welcome to the runway,” the company shared on Instagram on Thursday. “The first professional athlete angel … major is an understatement.”
The fashion show, which debuted in 1995, gained significant popularity by 2001 and continued annually until 2019, pausing briefly following criticism regarding a lack of diversity and body inclusivity. The show returned last year, in 2024, where Reese was present in the audience, inspired by the powerful women on the runway, along with musical acts from Cher, Lisa, and Tyla.
In an interview with People, Reese described the announcement as a “full-circle moment.”
“I literally could not stop smiling!” Reese expressed to the outlet. “It’s such a surreal and full-circle moment—just last year I was in the audience dreaming about being on that runway, completely in awe of the incredible women walking down the runway, and now I get to come back as an Angel. This will be an unforgettable night, and I’ll forever be grateful for it.”
Reese also conveyed her excitement about being part of the iconic show through her Instagram Story.
“I really manifested this,” she stated. “My dreams, my work, my ambition are all coming to fruition! See you on October 15th!”
Reese has expressed her desire to expand into modeling alongside her athletic career.
Additionally, Reese announced a partnership with Juicy Couture, a clothing and accessories brand, on Monday, October 6, via Instagram.
The Sky celebrated their star’s achievement with an Instagram montage showcasing her pregame outfits from the season.
This announcement follows Reese missing the Sky’s last three games of the season due to injury. At the season’s end, the team suspended her for half a game for “statements detrimental to the team.”
In an interview with the Chicago Tribune, Reese made pointed remarks about her team, stating they “need to secure quality players” and called it a “non-negotiable.” She further emphasized that the team “cannot settle for the current roster.”
Although Reese later publicly apologized to her teammates, she still faced suspension from the team. She has two years remaining on her rookie contract.
This year, Reese participated in 30 games with the Sky, averaging a double-double of 14.7 points and 12.6 rebounds per game. After her suspension, she did not return to play amid ongoing trade discussions.
