An AP source claims that Olivia Miles, a guard for Notre Dame, will use the transfer portal rather than the WNBA draft.
In a surprising turn of events, Notre Dame star guard Olivia Miles has decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal instead of declaring for the WNBA Draft, according to an Associated Press source. The decision marks a significant shift in her career trajectory and leaves college basketball fans speculating about her next destination. Miles, widely regarded as one of the most talented guards in the country, was expected to be a high draft pick, but instead, she will look for a fresh start elsewhere in the collegiate ranks.
Miles’ decision comes at a critical time in her career. The dynamic point guard has been a centerpiece for the Fighting Irish, leading the team with her elite court vision, scoring ability, and leadership. A true floor general, Miles has been instrumental in Notre Dame’s success over the past few seasons, earning All-American honors and solidifying herself as one of the premier guards in women’s college basketball. Her departure not only signals a major shift for the Irish but also raises questions about the future of their program.
Before suffering a knee injury late last season, Miles was one of the most electrifying players in the nation. Her ability to dictate the pace of the game, facilitate for her teammates, and take over offensively made her a nightmare for opposing defenses. Even after her injury, there was speculation that she would still declare for the WNBA Draft, given her undeniable talent and potential at the next level. However, by choosing to enter the transfer portal instead, Miles is opting for another season in college, which will allow her to fully recover and showcase her skills before making the jump to the professional ranks.
The transfer portal has become a powerful tool for college athletes in recent years, allowing players to seek better opportunities, new systems, or fresh starts. For Miles, the decision to transfer rather than enter the draft suggests that she wants to prove herself on the court before taking the next step in her career. It also indicates that she may be looking for a program that better suits her aspirations, whether that means competing for a national championship or playing in a system that maximizes her strengths.
Her departure is a significant loss for Notre Dame. As a program with a rich history in women’s college basketball, the Fighting Irish have relied on elite guard play to remain competitive on the national stage. Losing a player of Miles’ caliber will undoubtedly force head coach Niele Ivey to re-evaluate the team’s roster and future plans. While Notre Dame has consistently been able to attract top recruits, replacing a player like Miles is no easy task.
For Miles, the decision to transfer also opens up intriguing possibilities. Several top-tier programs will likely pursue her, eager to add a game-changing talent to their roster. Schools such as South Carolina, UConn, LSU, and Stanford could be potential landing spots, each offering different advantages. A program like South Carolina could provide her with a chance to play for a perennial national title contender, while UConn has a storied history of developing elite guards. LSU, fresh off a national championship run, could give her the opportunity to join a team stacked with talent.
Wherever she lands, Miles will immediately elevate any program she joins. Her combination of elite ball-handling, court vision, and scoring ability makes her a transformative player. She has the rare ability to make those around her better, creating easy scoring opportunities for teammates while also being a go-to scorer when needed. Her defensive instincts, quick hands, and ability to read the game make her a strong presence on both ends of the floor.
While the decision to stay in college might seem surprising, it could ultimately benefit Miles in the long run. The WNBA is highly competitive, and entering the league fully healthy and with another year of development could improve her draft stock. Given the talent in the upcoming draft class, opting for another year in college could position her to be a top pick in 2025 instead of navigating the uncertainty of this year’s draft.
Her injury history likely played a role in the decision as well. Rather than rushing into the professional ranks, where the physicality and pace of the game would put additional strain on her recovery, she now has the opportunity to take her time, fully heal, and return to peak form. Many WNBA prospects have taken similar paths, choosing to delay their entry into the league to ensure they are ready both physically and mentally.
Notre Dame fans will undoubtedly feel the impact of her departure, as she was not only a star on the court but also a beloved figure within the program. Her leadership, competitive spirit, and ability to take over in big moments made her a fan favorite. While her decision to transfer may be disappointing for those who hoped to see her finish her career in a Notre Dame uniform, it also speaks to the changing landscape of college basketball, where players have more agency than ever over their careers.
This move also highlights the growing influence of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities in college sports. With NIL deals now playing a major role in athletes’ decisions, transferring to a new program could allow Miles to capitalize on better sponsorship and branding opportunities before entering the professional ranks. The financial incentives of staying in college another year could be significant, giving her more control over her career before transitioning to the WNBA.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on where Miles decides to play next. Her presence in the transfer portal instantly makes her one of the most sought-after players available, and whichever program lands her will instantly boost its national championship aspirations. Programs will be eager to pitch her on their vision, offering everything from elite coaching to championship-contending rosters.
For now, Miles remains focused on her next step. While Notre Dame fans may feel a sense of loss, women’s college basketball as a whole will benefit from her continued presence in the NCAA. Instead of heading to the WNBA this year, she will continue to shape the landscape of the sport, bringing excitement and elite-level play to the college game for at least one more season.
Her decision to enter the transfer portal instead of the draft is a testament to her long-term vision and commitment to excellence. Whether she is preparing for the WNBA or seeking a better collegiate fit, one thing is certain—Olivia Miles is far from finished making an impact on women’s basketball. Wherever she goes next, she will bring the same passion, talent, and leadership that have made her one of the brightest stars in the game today.