In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through women’s college basketball, Notre Dame’s Olivia Miles—widely projected as the No. 2 pick in this month’s WNBA Draft—has opted to bypass the professional league. Instead, the 22-year-old phenom will enter the NCAA’s transfer portal, sources tell ESPN, making an unprecedented choice to utilize her remaining year of college eligibility rather than jump to the pros.
Miles’s decision marks a significant twist in the basketball landscape. Known for her dynamic playmaking, relentless defense, and leadership on the court, Miles was considered a near-lock to go in the top tier of the upcoming draft. However, her bold move suggests there’s more to her journey than simply turning pro.
A Surprising Career Move
Miles’s choice to transfer rather than declare for the WNBA Draft has fueled speculation about her future collegiate destination. Whether she aims to join a title-contending program or seek a better fit to showcase her skills, one thing is clear: her decision reshuffles the deck for both college basketball and the WNBA Draft.
Immediate Impact on the Draft: With a marquee prospect suddenly off the board, other elite players may rise in projected rankings, and teams in need of a point guard or a floor general will have to recalibrate their strategies.
Implications for NCAA Teams: Programs with strong rosters and a hunger for a championship run will likely vie for Miles’s commitment, recognizing the game-changing talent she brings to the table.
Miles’s Potential New Path
Speculation abounds on social media about her next step. Some insiders believe Miles is looking for a fresh environment to hone her game, aiming to further elevate her draft stock for 2026. Others suggest that personal or academic factors could have played a role. Regardless, her ability to shift the balance of power in college hoops makes her the most coveted transfer prospect of the offseason.
What Lies Ahead
For Miles, the next chapter of her career will be watched with intense scrutiny. While her decision to forgo a prime WNBA Draft position is uncommon—especially for a player of her caliber—it also underscores her desire to shape her own path. Fans and analysts alike will keep their eyes peeled for the announcement of her new program, as the reverberations of her transfer will be felt well into next season and beyond.
As Miles takes this bold step, one thing is certain: the basketball world will be buzzing with anticipation, eager to see how her story unfolds. Whether on a new college campus or in the pros a year from now, Olivia Miles remains a name destined to leave a lasting mark on the game.
