BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Olivia Miles, a standout guard from Notre Dame, is weighing a big decision after her team’s recent loss to TCU in the Sweet 16. With many experts predicting her as the No. 2 pick in the WNBA draft, she’s at a crossroads. “I’m still thinking about what I want to do, but I’m leaning towards entering the draft," Miles shared. Yet, her feelings can change. "I could wake up tomorrow wanting to come back.”
Miles has the talent to make her mark in professional basketball. At just 22, she has already packed in four seasons with Notre Dame. However, she also has one year of college eligibility left, a safety net that makes her decision tougher. She commented, "College is comfortable. But I feel like I’ve outgrown it a bit."
The WNBA can be unpredictable, adding to her dilemma. Players need to declare for the draft 10 days before, which lands on April 14 this year. Those who reach the Final Four must decide soon after their last game, complicating the decision for athletes like Miles.
In the game against TCU, Miles scored 10 points, but she struggled with an ankle injury she sustained earlier in the tournament. She said, “My ankle hurts a lot, but I had to push through. I wanted to finish the season with my team.” Despite the pain, she still managed to start all 34 games this season, averaging 15.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 5.6 rebounds.
While thinking about her future, she can’t ignore the chance of being a lottery pick in the WNBA. UConn’s Paige Bueckers is projected to be the top overall pick for the Dallas Wings, but Miles’ potential draft position keeps her focused on the opportunity. “Being a lottery pick is a lot to give up. I’ve worked hard for that," she stated confidently.
Analyzing recent WNBA drafts, the chance of being picked in the top few slots typically leads to lucrative contracts. For example, the 2022 draft’s top three picks each signed contracts worth over $70,000. This financial incentive adds another layer to Miles’ decision-making process.
Miles also indicated that the physical demands of joining the league, which kicks off on May 16, is daunting. She might prefer a summer to rest before jumping into the next level of competition. Regardless, she’s determined to make a choice that feels right for her.
She concluded, “I have to trust myself with whatever decision I make. I’ll be ready and confident in my choice.” It’s clear that, whatever path she takes, Olivia Miles has the skill and determination to succeed in basketball. For more information on the WNBA draft and player stats, check out the WNBA’s official site.
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