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As the countdown to the WNBA draft approaches, one of the most compelling stories in women’s basketball revolves around Notre Dame guard Olivia Miles. A projected top pick in the upcoming draft, Miles finds herself at a critical crossroads: should she turn pro or return for another season of college basketball? This decision weighs heavily on her as she reflects on her experiences and future aspirations.
After a tough Sweet 16 loss to TCU, where Miles scored 10 points, the 5-foot-10 standout shared her thoughts on the future. "I am still thinking about what I want to do, but leaning towards the draft," she mentioned, acknowledging the emotional rollercoaster that accompanied her performances this season. While she recognizes the allure of jumping into the professional realm, the comfort and familiarity of college life are hard to overlook.
The decision is complex for Miles. Having played four seasons, she is eligible for the draft but still has one additional year of collegiate eligibility available. This situation places her in a unique position, allowing her to weigh the pros and cons of both paths. Her impressive stats this season—averaging 15.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 5.6 rebounds—have solidified her reputation as a formidable guard, making her a potential lottery pick. Yet, the thought of leaving behind a place she loves adds to her internal conflict.
In reflecting on her time at Notre Dame, Miles expressed a sense of gratitude and connectedness: "I love college; I think I’ve outgrown it a little bit, though, so that makes my decision tougher to stay. It’s comfortable, a place where you have security." However, she is also acutely aware of the volatility associated with professional sports. This realization further complicates her decision-making process as she navigates her future.
In her career, Miles has faced her fair share of challenges, including a knee injury that sidelined her for the entirety of the 2023-24 season and a recent ankle injury that hampered her during the tournament. Despite these setbacks, her resilience shines through, and she remains optimistic about her capabilities, stating, "I need to trust myself with whatever decision I make." This confidence indicates that, regardless of whether she chooses to go pro or return to college, she is prepared to embrace the opportunities that come her way.
The clock is ticking with the draft set for April 14. Miles is aware of the urgency of her decision but values the need to consult trusted individuals and gather insights before making a final choice. The prospect of transitioning directly from college to the WNBA raises questions about her readiness and desire for an offseason. Her discussions about the draft underscore the competitive nature of women’s basketball. With UConn guard expected to be the number one pick for the Dallas Wings, the stakes are incredibly high for Miles. She admits, "[Potentially being] a lottery pick is a lot to give up. I’ve worked hard for that." The importance of her decision cannot be overstated, as it will shape not only her immediate future but also her long-term career trajectory.
Ultimately, Olivia Miles stands at a pivotal moment in her life—a moment filled with potential and uncertainty. Whether she chooses to embrace the professional challenge or seek another year of growth at the collegiate level, one thing is clear: Olivia Miles is destined for greatness in the world of basketball. As fans and analysts alike await her decision, the excitement surrounding her future only continues to build.
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