Azzi Fudd to Appear in 2027 Sports Illustrated Issue
The Dallas Wings star is part of an 11-woman roster announced for the upcoming annual swimsuit publication.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Basketball
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WNBA standout Azzi Fudd will feature in the 2027 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. The publication revealed the roster of 11 women on Wednesday for the upcoming edition.
Why it matters
The appearance highlights the continued intersection of professional sports and commercial media branding for high-profile athletes. Fudd joins a lineage of WNBA players who have been featured in the publication since its inception.
Azzi Fudd was selected No. 1 overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. She is one of 11 women on the 2027 roster, following a history of publication appearances that started in 1964.
The players
Azzi Fudd
She is a professional basketball player who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings.
Napheesa Collier
She is a professional basketball player who appeared in the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Sue Bird
She is a retired professional basketball player who appeared in the 2022 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Breanna Stewart
She is a professional basketball player who appeared alongside Sue Bird in the 2022 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
The details
The magazine is conducting photoshoots for the 2027 issue across Mallorca and Ibiza. Fudd, who underwent knee surgery in August 2026, is part of the latest group chosen for the annual feature.
Timeline
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue debuted in 1964.
Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart appeared in the 2022 edition.
Azzi Fudd underwent knee surgery in August 2026.
The 2027 roster was announced on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
Azzi Fudd will appear in the 2027 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Season Trajectory
This appearance continues the trend of WNBA stars leveraging their platform beyond the court during the league off-season. It aligns with the commercial growth trajectory established by previous features of professional basketball players in the annual issue.
Fans can monitor Fudd's recovery progress following her August 2026 knee surgery as she prepares for the 2027 season. The publication date of the 2027 issue will provide the next milestone for her public appearances outside of WNBA activities.
The takeaway
Professional athletes are increasingly balancing rigorous recovery and training schedules with high-profile media opportunities. Implementing a disciplined approach to off-court brand commitments can help athletes maintain visibility even while healing from injuries.
Further reading
For more on the league, visit our Basketball section.
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