Dawn Staley is one of the most decorated and successful coaches in women's college basketball, and she also has her own career in the WNBA to boot. It's safe to say that when she speaks about the sport, she knows exactly what the's talking about.
Staley, who is preparing to coach the South Carolina Gamecocks against the TCU Horned Frogs Monday night, was asked what makes this year's TCU squad different than last year's. While last season's roster boasted Hailey Van Lith, who has since been drafted into the WNBA, Stalely made it clear that this year's team has a formidable weapon: Olivia Miles.
That's high praise for Miles, and it's completely justified. It's also something TCU fans have been saying all season. Miles, who is projected to be a top three draft pick in this year's WNBA Draft.
Olivia Miles says Dawn Staley is an "icon"
Reporters who spoke to Miles on Sunday ahead of the game told her about what Staley said. Miles said that she noticed Staley was watching when TCU played Virignia, and it meant a lot.
"That's awesome. Dawn Staley is such an icon," she said. "She was watching the game I was playing against Virginia. That's her alma mater. Just an important point guard." Miles added that she's "excited" to go up against South Carolina in Monday's game.
"But I've had the utmost respect for her. I love any point guard that's touched the game in a positive way. And seeing what she's done as a player and as a coach, USA Basketball, you name it, she's just incredible," Miles continued. "I'm excited to finally meet her tomorrow and play against her team."
Olivia Miles has had an incredible season at TCU
Though Miles' decision to enter the transfer portal at the end of Notre Dame's 2024-25 season caught plenty of fans by surprise for two reasons: it had been assumed by many that she would finish out her collegiate career with Notre Dame (if she opted to use her available fifth year) or enter the 2025 WNBA Draft. Miles did neither.
Her move to TCU seemed like a curious but compelling fit — and it's been abundantly clear all season that it was the right move to make. Miles has credited the program with helping her find joy in basketball again, a powerful admission for a young player.
Miles averaged 19.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists in 35.4 this season.