Hailey Van Lith has already proven herself on the basketball court, but the rising WNBA star is now embracing a new challenge – modeling for Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue.
After initially feeling apprehensive, the 23-year-old guard made her second appearance in the magazine this spring, showing that strength, beauty, and confidence can coexist.
Van Lith, a standout college player and now a promising rookie with the Chicago Sky, made her SI Swimsuit debut on the April digital cover.
While fans may know her as a fierce competitor and floor general, the Washington native admitted she was unsure about stepping into swimwear in front of the camera.
“My initial reaction was, I was intimidated,” Van Lith revealed. “I didn’t know if I would be comfortable in that kind of setting, but I wanted to try something that I had never tried. I would regret it a lot if I let my insecurities or my reservations hold me back from it.”
Her fears didn’t hold her back for long. Van Lith returned just a month later for the 2025 print edition, photographed once again by Taylor Ballantyne in Fort Worth, Texas.
The shoot showcased her athletic build and bold attitude, with Van Lith modeling stylish swimsuits from Frankies Bikinis and Rat Boi.
“I feel sexy and cute and athletic,” she said. “You can be strong and beautiful, and all athletes should feel empowered.”
A bold new role for Van Lith
Van Lith wasn’t alone in her latest appearance. She was joined by fellow collegiate athletes Phoenix Dawn Miranda of Colorado and Rayniah Jones of South Florida.
The trio represents a new wave of female athletes who are expanding their influence far beyond the world of sports. Their inclusion in the issue continues SI Swimsuit’s recent tradition of highlighting student-athletes and celebrating diversity in body image and athleticism.
Since the digital cover’s release, Van Lith has embraced her growing platform, sharing a slideshow of the shoot on Instagram with a simple caption: “SI swim.”
The post quickly drew reactions from fans and fellow athletes. Teammate and fellow SI model Angel Reese commented, “my fine ahhh teammate,” while Olivia Dunne added, “Freaking outtt,” and Elizabeth Williams chimed in with fire emojis.
Her newfound confidence in front of the camera is just one part of a breakout year. Van Lith was drafted 11th overall by the Sky in April and secured her spot on the final roster.
She now prepares for her official home debut at Wintrust Arena, as the Sky continue their 2025 WNBA campaign.
Beyond her basketball achievements, Van Lith’s decision to embrace modeling has resonated with young women everywhere. Her message is clear: being vulnerable and trying something new can lead to growth, not regret.
By pushing past personal doubts and accepting challenges outside her comfort zone, Hailey Van Lith is redefining what it means to be an athlete-and a role model-in today’s game.
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