Angel Reese has been the name on everyone’s lips over the past month or so. The LSU starlet took the sporting world by storm with her electrifying plays during March Madness this year. Moreover, her antics against Caitlin Clark made her all the more famous in basketball circles. As the 21-year-old basks in the glory of her recent success, she recently joined the likes of Tennis superstar Maria Sharapova and other legends in an exclusive list.

Reese has been announced as the cover star for this year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition. As the incredible update does the rounds of the internet, Reese had some inspiring words to share with her fans.

Angel Reese joins Maria Sharapova in a rare feat

Maria Sharapova made headlines around the world in 2006 when she starred as the swimsuit model for Sports Illustrated’s yearly magazine. 21-year-old college basketball star Angel Reese is set to follow in her footsteps.

She was recently revealed as the swimsuit model for this year’s edition. Taking to Instagram, the official handle of Sports Illustrated introduced their cover star with a titillating video. 

“I am unapologetically Angel. I am a queen, I am confident, I am strong,” said Reese kicking off the video. Over the entirety of the video, the LSU star motivated her fans with some encouraging body positivity messages.

Reese added, “I embrace my body…I’m 6’3. I work out a lot, so I mean why not show it? I got a nice body.” The 2023 NCAA champ has quickly risen the ranks to become an established name in the sport. Her latest venture with Sports Illustrated further cements Reese’s ever-increasing fame and reputation.

The basketball world had rallied behind Reese during a major controversy

Angel Reese shocked the entire sporting world with her antics aimed at fellow NCAA starlet Caitlin Clark. In the dying moments of LSU’s dominant win over Iowa, Reese pulled off Clark’s celebration.

READ MORE: After ‘Uncle’ Shaquille O’Neal Brutally Slams Her Critics, ‘Unapologetic’ Angel Reese Gleefully Grooves With Ja Morant

This brought in a lot of hate from around the world. Fans on social media called out Reese and labeled her conduct unsportsmanlike. This is when NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal and other eminent names jumped in.

Shaq defended Reese and her antics on his podcasts and on other appearances. Interestingly, he also called the LSU star his ‘niece’. Needless to say, all of this uncalled attention only helped Reese become more and more popular.

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What were your thoughts on the Angel Reese controversy? Let us know in the comments down below.