Olivia Miles is hardly facing difficulty adjusting to the WNBA. The Minnesota Lynx rookie and the No. 2 pick in the 2026 WNBA draft has been simply outstanding as a rookie. After the win over the Atlanta Dream on Wednesday, Miles has recorded her name in the history books.

In their 96-81 win over the Dream, Miles had 16 points, five rebounds and eight assists in 34 minutes. The Lynx rookie has earned the honor of being mentioned alongside elite names.

The Notre Dame standout has joined Candace Parker, Sabrina Ionescu and Caitlin Clark as only the fourth player in WNBA history to average at least 15 points, five rebounds, and five assists through seven career games. She has now left Sue Bird behind, who has six career games in the same category. 

As she leads the Rookie of the Year race, Miles’ numbers haven’t come in a vacuum. She has been highly crucial in helping the Lynx stay at the top of the league with a 5-2 record. Miles has proven to be a great scorer and an elite playmaker.

She has slowly taken over playmaking responsibility from Courtney Williams. The Lynx remain at the top of the league despite missing Napheesa Collier. 

Minnesota Lynx’s future is set with Olivia Miles

The Dallas Wings selected Azzi Fudd at No. 1, pairing the former UConn star with her former college teammate Paige Bueckers to perhaps channel their college glory with the Wings.

While Fudd has had a slow start with Dallas, her latest 24-point performance against the New York Liberty could prove to be a big break.

But Miles has had the most seamless transition to pro among all draft picks.

The Lynx included her in the starting lineup from their first game. Miles hasn’t disappointed them yet. In her first game, she burst for 21 points, eight assists, two steals and two blocks. Although the Lynx lost the game, Miles had carved her name. 

After seven games, the Lynx player has become a clear favourite to win the Rookie of the Year award, leaving behind Pauline Astier, who had started the season on a very strong note.

Miles is now averaging 15.1 points, five rebounds, and 5.9 assists while shooting 47.5% from the field.

She is leading all rookies in points, assists and steals. Miles is showing an early sign of being an elite player in the next few years.

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Written by

Nandjee Ranjan

Edited by

Koushik Biswas