Introducing Angel Reese, 2023 SI Swimsuit Model

The LSU forward and NCAA women’s basketball tournament’s Most Outstanding Player posed for the magazine in Los Angeles.

Angel Reese was photographed by Yu Tsai in Los Angeles.Swimsuit by Indah. Necklace by Brinker + Eliza.Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

After helping lead the LSU Tigers to their first NCAA women’s basketball national championship last month, Angel Reese is on top of the world. She also was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. The 21-year-old, who just rang in her milestone birthday Saturday, will be featured in the 2023 SI Swimsuit Issue after being photographed in Los Angeles.

The 6'3" Maryland native told SI Swimsuit that she felt at ease on set with photographer Yu Tsai, and in fact, feels most comfortable in her own skin in a swimsuit.

“I had on thong bathing suits, and I didn’t think I was going to be comfortable, but [everyone] made me feel really comfortable,” she said. “I work out a lot. I embrace my body and who I am and every mark on my body. I probably feel the sexiest in a bathing suit.”

The Bayou Barbie said she gets her confident nature from her mother, also named Angel.

“I’ve always stood on not getting the answer no,” she stated. “I’ve always just tried to find another way or just do it myself. Don’t ever let somebody tell you that you have to be in a box, and stand your ground.”

Reese also believes too much was made of her viral moment with Iowa’s Caitlin Clark during the NCAA championship game last month—but she hopes the ensuing conversation will remind the public that women can compete and leave it all on the court.

“It’s just being able to force people to accept that women can talk trash. The women’s side gets penalized for it or we’re considered as not being ladylike and that we’re not playing by the rules,” Reese says. “We work just as hard as the men. Women can be who we are; women can be competitive.”

Meet Angel Reese—read the 2023 SI Swimsuit model’s full feature profile here.

Get ready for the hottest event of the year! The 2023 SI Swimsuit Issue is just around the corner, and you won’t want to miss the Swimsuit Issue Launch Party. Secure your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable weekend of glamour, beauty and fun.

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