Angel Reese makes history as first professional athlete at Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

Angel Reese Makes History as First Professional Athlete to Walk Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

WNBA superstar Angel Reese is officially getting a pair of wings. The Chicago Sky star announced she will be walking in the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, making history as the first professional athlete to ever grace the runway. Angel Reese continues to push her influence not only through sports but through worldwide recognition.

Reese, 23, shared her excitement on Instagram:

“Stepping into a dream: From Angel to a Victoria Secret ANGEL. I’m finally getting my wings! I’ll be walking the Victoria’s Secret 2025 runway show for the first time, and it feels like destiny. ✨ Wings on, heels ready…Catch me on the runway💗 @victoriassecret”

The announcement was accompanied by a video from Victoria’s Secret, showing Reese in a baby pink robe, black lingerie, and dramatic white feather wings — the signature accessory of the show’s iconic angels.

Angel Reese: From Basketball Star to Runway Trailblazer

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Angel Reese has quickly risen to prominence as one of the WNBA’s brightest stars. After a stellar college career at Louisiana State University, where she helped lead the LSU Tigers to multiple NCAA tournament appearances, Reese was drafted by the Chicago Sky in 2023.

On the court, Reese is known for her agility, power, and rebounding skills. She has earned accolades including WNBA All-Star honors, Most Improved Player consideration, and recognition as one of the league’s most dynamic young stars.

Her impact extends beyond basketball. Reese is a cultural icon, known for her charisma, confidence, and ability to engage fans both on social media and through public appearances. Joining the Victoria’s Secret runway cements her status as not just a sports figure, but a mainstream influencer and trailblazer for women in sports.

A Historic Moment for Sports and Fashion

Angel Reese’s participation represents a groundbreaking moment for both athletics and fashion. While Victoria’s Secret has previously featured celebrities, models, and influencers, no professional athlete has ever walked the runway.

The significance of Reese joining the show extends beyond just representation — it’s a statement about versatility, confidence, and the expanding definition of beauty and athleticism. Reese is known for her dominance on the basketball court, but her runway debut showcases her multifaceted talent and poise off the court.

The lingerie brand highlighted the historic moment in their Instagram announcement:

“Angel Reese, welcome to the runway. The first professional athlete angel…major is an understatement.”

This milestone reflects broader shifts in the fashion world, where brands increasingly seek to embrace diverse backgrounds, achievements, and body types. Reese embodies both elite athleticism and fashion-forward elegance, bridging two traditionally separate worlds.

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025: What to Expect

The 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is set for October 15, and Reese will join a lineup of models and celebrities showcasing the brand’s latest collections. Known for its dramatic set designs, high-energy music, and lavish lingerie, the annual show remains a premier event in fashion, blending spectacle with celebrity allure.

Reese’s debut as the first professional athlete adds a unique edge to the runway. Fans can expect:

  • Reese rocking the iconic angel wings paired with Victoria’s Secret’s signature lingerie
  • High-energy choreography and a chance to showcase both athleticism and elegance
  • Social media buzz as Reese’s fanbase and basketball followers tune in

Reese’s inclusion also signals a broader trend in fashion: embracing athletes, celebrities, and diverse talent outside traditional modeling circles, appealing to younger, more socially engaged audiences.

The Cultural Impact of Angel Reese’s Runway Debut

Reese’s runway appearance is more than a personal milestone; it’s a cultural statement. For professional athletes, stepping into fashion represents an expanding platform to influence style, branding, and representation.

Historically, sports figures crossing into fashion have made headlines — think Serena Williams’ fashion line, Naomi Osaka’s campaigns, or LeBron James’ influence in sneakers. Reese’s runway debut takes this one step further, positioning a young female athlete at the intersection of elite sports and mainstream fashion.

Her announcement has already inspired fans online, particularly young women and aspiring athletes, who see Reese breaking boundaries while celebrating confidence and femininity. Reese’s Instagram post has garnered hundreds of thousands of likes, with fans praising her for balancing strength and style:

“Angel Reese is showing us how to dominate on the court and the runway 💖”
“First athlete angel? This is legendary 🔥”

Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky: A Star on the Rise

Angel Reese’s partnership with Victoria’s Secret also highlights her growing influence off the court. With the Chicago Sky, Reese continues to impress with her performance, leadership, and charisma.

The synergy between her athletic and fashion accomplishments reflects the modern athlete’s role: not confined to sports but expanding into lifestyle, media, and global branding. Reese’s visibility across multiple platforms increases both her personal brand and the WNBA’s profile, inspiring more fans to engage with women’s basketball.

Social Media Reaction and Anticipation

The announcement has sparked excitement across Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Fans are sharing clips from Victoria’s Secret’s video, including Reese in the baby pink robe, black lingerie, and the show-stopping wings. The hashtag #AngelReeseVS has quickly trended, drawing attention from sports and fashion audiences alike.

Commentators, influencers, and fellow athletes have all weighed in:

  • WNBA players celebrated Reese’s milestone as a representation of female empowerment.
  • Fashion insiders praised her elegance, noting her runway potential despite not being a traditional model.
  • Fans across basketball and fashion circles have expressed anticipation for the full show, calling Reese’s appearance historic and inspiring.

Why This Moment Matters

Angel Reese walking the Victoria’s Secret runway symbolizes a blurring of lines between sports and fashion. It reinforces the idea that women can excel in traditionally different spheres simultaneously — and that athleticism and glamour are not mutually exclusive.

As Reese prepares to debut her wings on October 15, she not only makes history but also challenges stereotypes, showing that strength, athleticism, and beauty can coexist on the world’s biggest fashion stages.

Closing Thoughts: Angel Reese’s Lasting Legacy

Angel Reese’s inclusion in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 is more than a personal achievement; it’s a cultural milestone. Her runway debut demonstrates that professional athletes can extend their influence into fashion, media, and beyond.

As the first professional athlete angel, Reese sets a precedent for future generations, proving that women in sports can cross over into new industries while maintaining their athletic excellence. Fans, both in basketball and fashion, are eagerly awaiting October 15 to see Reese take flight in her wings, marking a historic moment that will be remembered for years to come.