Key Highlights
- Kysre Gondrezick becomes the first Black professional athlete to be a Playboy Playmate.
- Gondrezick, formerly of the WNBA’s Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky, was named “Playboy’s 2025 Miss June.”
- The milestone arrives as women’s sports continue to gain more visibility and cultural cachet.
- Playboy highlighted Gondrezick’s evolution from a full-time WNBA player to a free agent in their introduction.
New Era for Black Athletes in Playboy Magazine
On Monday, November 10, 2025, former WNBA star Kysre Gondrezick made history as the first professional athlete of color to grace the cover of Playboy magazine. This milestone comes at a pivotal time when women’s sports are experiencing unprecedented growth and recognition.
Breaking Barriers
Gondrezick, who played for the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky before becoming a free agent in 2024, was unveiled as “Playboy’s 2025 Miss June” during the magazine’s relaunch this year. Her selection is celebrated not only as an achievement in fashion but also as a significant step towards breaking down racial barriers in the traditionally white-dominated entertainment industry.
Evolution of a Brand
The Playboy announcement emphasized Gondrezick’s journey from her days on the court to this new phase in her career. “What people label as a transition, I embody as evolution,” she said during an interview about her brand-building efforts. “Becoming a WNBA player and getting to that level, you put in a lot of work to get there. You have to put in even more work to stay there.” This statement underscores the multifaceted nature of Gondrezick’s professional identity.
Playboy’s 2025 Lineup
Gondrezick is one of three Black women to be included in Playboy’s 2025 lineup, alongside models Mykeesha Nelson and Louisa Ama. The magazine’s relaunch has been marked by a commitment to diversity, with this year’s cover featuring a diverse selection of Playmates who reflect the changing demographics of American society.
The upcoming Winter 2025-26 issue and the 2026 Playboy Calendar will feature Gondrezick alongside other models. Her inclusion is seen as a reflection of the evolving landscape of women in sports and fashion, where athletes are increasingly leveraging their platforms for broader cultural impact.
Impact on Women’s Sports
The milestone achieved by Kysre Gondrezick highlights the expanding opportunities for female athletes beyond traditional sports media. As more professional athletes explore new avenues such as modeling and fashion, they bring with them a unique perspective that challenges conventional norms and celebrates diversity.
Playboy’s decision to feature a Black athlete on its cover not only honors her athletic achievements but also signals a broader shift towards inclusivity within the magazine’s content. This move is particularly significant in light of ongoing discussions about representation and inclusion across various sectors, including media and entertainment.
