Olivia Miles, the former Notre Dame women's basketball All‑American, announced that she would spend her final year of eligibility at Texas Christian University, a move that sent ripples through the college basketball community.
From South Bend to Fort Worth
The decision sparked a wave of criticism from sections of the Notre Dame fan base, who felt the transfer was a betrayal of the program that had shaped her early career. Even as the dialogue intensified, figures such as Brian Kelly observed the situation from afar.
At TCU, Miles quickly established herself as a dominant force, averaging career‑high points and free‑throw percentages while logging extensive minutes that underscored the coaching staff's confidence in her abilities. Teammates like Hannah Hidalgo embraced her presence, fostering a competitive environment that benefitted both players.
Her statistical surge was accompanied by accolades, including Big 12 Player of the Year honors and multiple performances that saw her reach personal bests of 40 points and 16 rebounds, as well as a 14‑assist outing that highlighted her playmaking skills. Markus Burton, another standout on the roster, noted the synergistic effect of their combined talents.
The professional transition saw Miles selected second overall by the Minnesota Lynx in the 2026 WNBA draft, where she entered the league with high expectations and immediately began to translate her collegiate success into pro production. Veteran Kayla McBride offered mentorship as Miles adjusted to the faster pace of the WNBA.
Reflecting on her journey, Miles expressed gratitude toward Notre Dame, emphasizing that the university remains a pivotal part of her identity despite the physical distance, and she still considers herself an alum of the institution. Reporter Tom Noie captured her thoughts in a recent feature, underscoring the lasting connection she maintains with her roots in South Bend.