Full Breakdown
Olivia Miles: From Notre Dame to TCU and the Path to the WNBA
3/31/2026, 12:09:41 PM
Career Transition and Elite Eight Success
Olivia Miles, a standout point guard, made headlines with her decision to transfer from Notre Dame to Texas Christian University (TCU) after suffering a torn ACL during her sophomore season. This pivotal move allowed her to utilize her final year of college eligibility, ultimately leading the Horned Frogs to their first Elite Eight appearance in program history. Despite being projected as a high lottery pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Miles opted to forgo the draft to further develop her skills in a system that better suited her play style.
Background: Injury and Transfer Decision
Miles' journey took a significant turn on February 23, 2023, when she tore her ACL in a game against the Louisville Cardinals. This injury sidelined her for the remainder of the 2022-2023 season and the entirety of the 2023-2024 season at Notre Dame. Recognizing the need for a fresh start and a system that would allow her to thrive, she transferred to TCU following the 2024-2025 season. "I really just wanted to go somewhere where I’d be able to showcase my abilities the best that I can," Miles stated, reflecting on her decision.
Performance at TCU
At TCU, Miles has excelled, averaging 19.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game during her season. Her leadership and performance were instrumental in guiding the Horned Frogs to the Elite Eight, where they faced the top-seeded South Carolina Gamecocks. Miles' collegiate career has been marked by significant achievements, including becoming the first men's or women's freshman to post a triple-double in the NCAA tournament in 2022.
Official Statements & Responses
Miles expressed her gratitude for her time at TCU, stating, "I'm excited, and I'm grateful that I've had my time in college, but I'm ready for the W at this point." TCU head coach Mark Campbell praised her abilities, asserting, "There is not a better point guard in the country than Olivia." These endorsements highlight her impact on the team and her readiness for the next level.
Criticism & Opposition
While Miles' decision to stay in college has been largely praised, some critics argue that she could have benefited from entering the WNBA draft earlier, given her high draft potential. However, Miles emphasized the importance of being fully prepared for the professional league, indicating that her choice was driven by a desire for personal and athletic growth.
What's Next
As Miles prepares for the upcoming WNBA draft, she remains a top prospect, with ESPN projecting her to be selected at the No. 3 spot by the Seattle Storm. Her journey from Notre Dame to TCU exemplifies the importance of making strategic decisions for long-term success in athletics.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think it was a mixture of me listening to my body and what I needed and also just another year to develop, you know be in a system where it’ll favor me and I’ll have great teammates and a great coach around me,” — Olivia Miles, TCU Basketball Player
- “There is not a better point guard in the country than Olivia.” — Mark Campbell, TCU Head Coach
