LeBron James has been appointed as an honorary chair, and WNBA’s Angel Reese will participate in the host committee for the 2025 Met Gala.
The Met Gala in 2025 will feature representation from both the NBA and WNBA, marking a significant cultural moment as sports icons continue to make waves in high fashion.
LeBron James will act as honorary chair while WNBA’s Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky becomes part of the reformed host committee, as announced by the Met’s Costume Institute on Tuesday.
This resurgence of the “host committee” tradition introduces a fresh lineup of notable individuals — essentially a new lineup of prominent celebrities in addition to the previously revealed gala hosts: Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky, and LeBron. (Vogue’s editor Anna Wintour, who manages the gala annually, completes the list.)
LeBron James’ Expanding Influence Beyond Basketball
LeBron James’ appointment as honorary chair is a testament to his far-reaching impact beyond the NBA. While he’s best known for his dominance on the basketball court, LeBron has built an empire in business, media, and fashion. His involvement in the Met Gala is a natural extension of his growing influence in the fashion world, having previously collaborated with luxury brands and regularly making statements with his personal style.
Being named honorary chair places him alongside some of the most influential figures in fashion and entertainment, reinforcing his status as a global cultural icon. It also signals a broader shift in how athletes are perceived in high fashion—not just as attendees, but as integral figures shaping the industry.
Angel Reese’s Rising Profile in Fashion
Angel Reese’s inclusion in the Met Gala’s host committee further cements her as one of the most marketable young athletes today. The Chicago Sky forward, known for her confidence both on and off the court, has already landed several major brand endorsements and fashion collaborations. Her presence at the Gala reflects the increasing intersection between sports and style, where female athletes are gaining recognition for their cultural influence.
Reese has embraced fashion as part of her personal brand, often showcasing bold looks and making statements at major events. With her addition to the host committee, the Met Gala is signaling a broader embrace of sports figures in the fashion world, especially from the WNBA, which has seen a surge in popularity in recent years.
What This Means for the 2025 Met Gala
The Met Gala, known for its extravagant red carpet and themed dress code, will undoubtedly see both LeBron and Reese bring their signature styles to the event. While the official theme has yet to be announced, the presence of high-profile athletes suggests an effort to broaden the event’s appeal.
This also marks a shift in how the Met Gala is curated. Traditionally, the event has been dominated by Hollywood stars and musicians, but in recent years, figures from sports, social media, and even tech have been given a larger platform. LeBron and Reese’s involvement highlights this evolution, making the Gala feel more representative of today’s diverse entertainment and cultural landscape.
The return of the host committee, which had faded in prominence over the years, adds another layer of intrigue. With Reese among its members, the committee is expected to introduce fresh perspectives, potentially influencing guest lists, seating arrangements, and overall event direction.
Looking Ahead
With a star-studded host lineup and a renewed focus on diversity in entertainment, the 2025 Met Gala is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about editions in recent memory. While fashion will remain the centerpiece, the presence of LeBron James and Angel Reese reinforces how the event continues to evolve beyond its traditional boundaries.
As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on how these two athletes make their mark on fashion’s biggest night.
