Olivia Miles had a choice — turn pro and take her talents to the WNBA or stay in college for one more year. The Notre Dame guard, once projected as the No. 2 overall pick, has officially made her decision. But instead of declaring for the draft, Miles is shaking things up by entering the transfer portal, sending the women’s college basketball landscape into a frenzy.
This move was Unexpected. Most top players who return for their final year do so with their original schools. But Miles is taking a different path, and after a rollercoaster season and an emotional Sweet 16 exit, she’s opting for a fresh start elsewhere rather than jumping straight into the pros.
Olivia Miles’ Surprising Decision and What Led to It
Notre Dame’s standout guard had been weighing her options for months. Speaking after the Fighting Irish’s Sweet 16 loss, Miles made it clear that her choices — going pro or staying in school — both had their challenges.
As reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, Miles said, “It just changes every day. I love college. I think I’ve outgrown it a little bit, though.”
But about letting the draft pass, she admitted that this was “a lot to give up.”
Due to a knee injury, Miles sat out the entire 2023-24 season. But she returned this year with a bang — averaging a career-high 15.4 points per game on 48.3% shooting. The biggest change for Miles was her transformation in her perimeter game, jumping from a rough 22.8% from deep in 2022-23 to an elite 40.6% this year.
Notre Dame started with all guns blazing. It held the No. 1 spot in the AP rankings for a short period, but things didn’t end as planned. The Irish lost two of their last three regular-season games and fell early in the ACC Tournament. In the end, they were bounced in the Sweet 16 by TCU — an upstart squad that made its first-ever Elite Eight appearance.
What’s Next for Miles and Women’s College Basketball?
With Miles entering the transfer portal, the big question is: Where does she go next? She’s a game-changing guard, a proven leader, and one of the most polished playmakers in the country. Any program with championship aspirations is going to make a push.
Schools with solid NIL backing will certainly be in the mix, as well as contenders needing a veteran guard. And, of course, the chance to team up with other top-tier talent could play a role in Miles’ decision.
For Notre Dame, this is a massive shift. The trio of Miles, Hannah Hidalgo, and Sonia Citron was one of the best backcourts in the country. Now, the Irish will have to regroup while Miles looks for her next home.
No matter where she lands, one thing is clear: the WNBA will have to wait. Miles is running it back for one more college season — but this time, in a new jersey.