WNBA's MVP Lauren Jackson Poses for Nude Photos in Australian Magazine
WNBA Most Valuable Player Lauren Jackson posed nude in an Australian magazine that features Olympic athletes who will compete in Athens.
The Seattle Storm forward participated in a seven-hour photo shoot last offseason in Sydney. The publication, called Black + White and includes 35 athletes.
Lauren Jackson, 23, appears on the cover of the Athens tribute issue of "Black + White, an artistic publication that also did pre-Olympic editions with Australian athletes in 1996 and 2000.
"I did it because it is such a prestigious magazine in Australia," Jackson said before Friday night's game at Houston. "I am really proud to be a part of it. I don't think it should be looked upon badly, that's for sure."
"We work so hard, as athletes, on making our bodies look great and to be in the best possible shape that we can be," Jackson said. "I am proud of my body at this stage and I know in 20 years it's not going to be the same. But right now I am really happy about it.
After the Olympics, the magazine photos will be auctioned off to benefit charities. Jackson said she doesn't consider the project demeaning to women because it includes male Australian athletes.
Jackson was voted league MVP last season after averaging 21.2 points and 9.3 rebounds, both career highs. She became the first international player and the youngest to win the award.
The photos in question follow below: (click for larger image)
