Sports Illustrated unveiled its 2026 Swimsuit Issue preview this week, featuring WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Sophie Cunningham among the 12 models and athletes photographed along Florida's Gulf Coast.
Minnesota Lynx forward Collier and Indiana Fever guard Cunningham joined sprinter Melissa Jefferson-Wooden in Fort Myers and Captiva Island, Florida for the annual beach photo shoot.
"We show what it is to sacrifice, what is it to work hard, [and] to achieve your dream," Collier said during the SI Swimsuit Issue shoot.
The Minnesota captain was seen using a beach wheelchair while recovering from offseason ankle surgery.
The roster also included models Christen Goff, Katie Austin, Jena Sims, Jasmine Sanders, Ellie Thumann, Gabi Moura, and Olandria. Photographers shot at multiple Florida locations, including Pine Island, Sanibel Island, and Cayo Costa State Park.
Collier and Cunningham join a growing list of women's sports athletes featured in the annual Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. Rugby star Ilona Maher, tennis champion Naomi Osaka, and gymnastics icon Simone Biles all appeared in previous issues. The athletes' inclusion challenges traditional SI Swimsuit Issue stereotypes.
"Being a rookie for SI Swimsuit is such an honor," Cunningham told the magazine.
"It's a completely different kind of confidence than I'm used to, and I hope every person gets the opportunity to feel the way I did that day at least once in their lives."
How to Buy the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue
Fort Myers marks the 2026 SI Swimsuit Issue's third destination announcement.
Additional talent and locations will be revealed before the magazine hits newsstands — both print and digital — this May.
