In a move that reshapes both women’s college and professional basketball landscapes, Notre Dame star Olivia Miles has made the surprising decision to bypass the 2025 WNBA Draft and transfer to TCU. The elite guard was widely projected as the No. 2 overall pick by the Seattle Storm before choosing to use her final year of college eligibility.
The decision comes after Miles averaged 15.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game during the 2024-25 season with Notre Dame. Her three-point shooting dramatically improved to 40.6%, and she played a crucial role in helping Notre Dame reach the No. 1 spot in the AP poll in February before their Sweet 16 exit.
Olivia Miles Chooses College Amidst WNBA CBA Uncertainty
Olivia Miles cited multiple factors in her decision, including the physical toll of transitioning directly to the WNBA season after a grueling college campaign.
After playing through an ankle injury during the NCAA tournament, Miles expressed concerns about jumping straight into the WNBA season, which is scheduled to begin May 16.
Breaking: Former Notre Dame guard Olivia Miles has committed to TCU out of the transfer portal, sources told @ShamsCharania, confirming multiple reports.
Get breaking news alerts from Shams Charania through the ESPN app: https://t.co/IbLfi8FVS5 pic.twitter.com/YCPasPeS7H
— ESPN (@espn) April 8, 2025
The uncertainty surrounding the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement also influenced Miles’ choice. By remaining in college, she can monitor potential changes to rookie contracts while further developing her game.
At 22 years old and having completed four seasons at Notre Dame, Miles was fully eligible for this year’s draft.
TCU Lands Elite Talent After Historic Season
For TCU, landing Miles represents a massive victory for head coach Mark Campbell’s program. Coming off their best season in program history with an Elite Eight appearance, the Horned Frogs have effectively utilized the transfer portal to build a contender in women’s basketball.
Miles, ranked as the second-best player in the transfer portal, is expected to take over as TCU’s starting point guard, replacing Hailey Van Lith, who is moving to the WNBA. With her proven playmaking ability and elite court vision, Miles brings versatility that could elevate TCU’s performance even further in 2025-26.
The transfer brings an interesting full-circle moment, as Miles’ final game with Notre Dame was a Sweet 16 loss to the very TCU team she now joins. Despite playing through her ankle injury, she contributed 10 points, three assists, and two rebounds in that matchup, giving TCU fans a glimpse of their future.
RELATED: Is TCU the New Transfer Portal Powerhouse in Women’s College Hoops?
Miles leaves Notre Dame with a decorated legacy, including three career triple-doubles, the most in program history, surpassing Notre Dame legends Skylar Diggins and Jackie Young. Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the Irish, where she set multiple program records during her four-year tenure.
Fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive for TCU, with social media buzzing about the potential impact Miles could have on the program’s championship aspirations. As one fan noted, “TCU just scored big; Olivia Miles is a game changer.” Another highlighted that “TCU just added serious vision and versatility to their roster.”
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
