A Historic Season for Olivia Miles
Olivia Miles, a native of Phillipsburg, New Jersey, captured the 2025-26 Bob Bowlsby Award, becoming the first woman ever to receive the honor from TCU. The accolade, presented by the Big 12 Conference, recognizes not only athletic excellence but also academic achievement and leadership, underscoring Miles' dual commitment on and off the court.
Miles' statistical dominance was unparalleled: she averaged 19.6 points, 6.6 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 48 percent from the field. Her season totals — 744 points, 252 assists and 200 rebounds — placed her as the sole player nationwide to reach the 600‑point, 200‑rebound, 200‑assist and 50‑steal thresholds, a testament to her all‑around impact.
The award was shared with Juliette Laracuente‑Huebner of Cincinnati in track and field, highlighting a rare cross‑sport collaboration. In the men's category, Arizona State swimmer Jonny Kulow also earned the distinction, further diversifying the list of honorees.
Beyond the hardwood, Miles distinguished herself academically, graduating with two undergraduate degrees from Notre Dame and maintaining a 3.75 GPA while pursuing a Master of Liberal Arts at TCU. Her professional trajectory took a decisive turn when the Minnesota Lynx selected her with the No. 2 overall pick in the WNBA Draft, positioning her as the clear frontrunner for Rookie of the Year.
Miles' influence extended to the All‑Star stage as she was named a starter for the 2026 WNBA All‑Star Game, the only rookie selected and one of just ten players in three decades to receive the honor. Her 15‑5 record with the Lynx, coupled with a top‑spot league standing, reflects a rapid transition from collegiate star to professional cornerstone.