In a dazzling fusion of athleticism and artistry, Hailey Van Lith, the 23-year-old basketball sensation, has made her debut as Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s April 2025 Digital Cover Star. The photo shoot, captured by Taylor Ballantyne, took place at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Texas, showcasing Van Lith’s commanding presence both on and off the court.
Van Lith’s journey to this moment is as impressive as the images themselves. Her collegiate basketball career includes tenures at the University of Louisville, LSU, and Texas Christian University (TCU). Notably, she became the first player in NCAA history, regardless of gender, to appear in five Elite Eight rounds of the March Madness tournament. In her final season with TCU, she was named the Big 12 Player of the Year, leading the Horned Frogs to their first tournament appearance since 2010.
The Fort Worth shoot highlighted Van Lith’s athletic physique and confident demeanor. Styled in a variety of swimsuits, including a sleek black Saint Laurent one-piece featured on the cover, she embodied strength and elegance. Her glam team, comprising makeup artist Katherine Ann Mellinger and hairstylist Paul Norton, complemented the modern aesthetic of the museum setting.
Reflecting on the experience, Van Lith admitted initial apprehension but embraced the opportunity to step outside her comfort zone. “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,” she shared. “I would regret it a lot if I let my insecurities or my reservations hold me back from it”.
As she prepares for the upcoming WNBA draft, Van Lith’s appearance in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit marks a significant milestone, blending her athletic achievements with a burgeoning presence in the fashion world. Her story continues to inspire, demonstrating that strength and beauty are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary facets of a dynamic individual.
For a closer look at Hailey Van Lith Sports Illustrated Swimsuit feature, visit the official gallery here.