In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball community, Notre Dame’s standout guard Olivia Miles has announced her decision to forgo the WNBA Draft and enter the NCAA transfer portal for her final year of eligibility. This unexpected development comes on the heels of the Fighting Irish’s Sweet 16 loss to TCU, marking a significant turning point for both Miles and the Notre Dame women’s basketball program.
Olivia Miles, 22, has been a cornerstone of the Fighting Irish lineup. Despite missing the 2023-24 season due to a knee injury, she returned with vigor, averaging 15.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game. Her leadership was instrumental in guiding Notre Dame to the Sweet 16, and she made history by becoming the first ACC player to record consecutive triple-doubles, leading the nation with three such performances this season.
The decision to enter the transfer portal instead of declaring for the WNBA Draft, where she was projected as the No. 2 overall pick, has left many analysts and fans speculating about her motivations. Miles cited the “volatility” and “comfort” associated with both professional and collegiate paths as factors influencing her choice.
This move is not only a personal decision for Miles but also has broader implications for the Notre Dame women’s basketball team. Her departure represents a significant loss for head coach Niele Ivey, who has relied heavily on Miles’ talent and experience to drive the team’s success. The program now faces the challenge of filling the void left by such a pivotal player.
The timing of Miles’ announcement, coming shortly after the team’s elimination from the NCAA Tournament by TCU, adds another layer of complexity. In that game, TCU’s Hailey Van Lith led a remarkable comeback, scoring 26 points and propelling the Horned Frogs to a 71-62 victory over the Fighting Irish.
As Miles explores new collegiate opportunities, her decision underscores the evolving landscape of college athletics, where factors such as NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) compensation and personal development goals play increasingly prominent roles in athletes’ career trajectories. While her next destination remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Olivia Miles’ journey will continue to captivate and inspire those who follow women’s basketball.
