Before Olivia Miles transferred to Texas Christian University (TCU) from Notre Dame, expectations were high for her potential in the WNBA. Having averaged 15.4 points on 48.3% shooting as a junior at Notre Dame, she was already considered a promising talent. However, her decision to forgo the 2025 WNBA Draft to utilize her fifth year of college eligibility raised eyebrows, as many anticipated her immediate entry into professional basketball.
The decisive moment came during the 2026 season when Miles recorded a triple-double in TCU’s 86-40 victory over UC San Diego. This performance was not just a personal achievement; it marked her sixth triple-double of the season, setting Big 12 single-season and career records. With this, she solidified her status as a projected No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming WNBA draft.
As a result of her outstanding performance, Miles has transformed TCU’s basketball program, leading them to their first Elite Eight appearance in history. This achievement not only highlights her individual talent but also underscores the impact of her transfer on the team, which has seen a total of 10 transfers on its roster this season. TCU’s success, with 31 wins this season, can be largely attributed to her leadership and skill on the court.
Experts in women’s basketball have noted that Miles’s decision to stay in college has been beneficial, especially in light of the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which raises minimum salaries from $66,079 in 2025 to nearly $300,000 in 2026. This financial incentive may have influenced her choice to enhance her college experience rather than rush into the professional realm.
“I found my joy back, my love for the game and I found a sisterhood and family that I’ll have forever,” Miles remarked, reflecting on her time at TCU. This sentiment resonates with many athletes who prioritize personal growth and team dynamics over immediate professional opportunities.
Furthermore, Miles’s career total of 12 triple-doubles places her third in Division I history, a testament to her exceptional skill set. As she approaches the WNBA draft, the anticipation surrounding her future continues to grow.
In a sport that is increasingly gaining recognition and support, Miles’s journey exemplifies the evolving landscape of women’s basketball. “It’s just a win for women and it’s a precedent set and moving forward it’ll only get better,” she stated, highlighting the broader implications of her success.
As the 2026 WNBA draft approaches, the basketball community watches closely, eager to see how Miles’s remarkable collegiate career will translate to the professional level. With her recent performances and the changes in the WNBA, the stakes have never been higher for aspiring athletes like her.
Details remain unconfirmed.
