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Jun 17, 20261
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Olivia Miles Brings Joy and Energy to Minnesota Lynx's Surprising Season
Olivia Miles, the Minnesota Lynx's second overall draft pick, has become the best player on the league's best team while bringing remarkable joy and energy to a franchise navigating unexpected success. Despite significant roster departures and ongoing championship drought since 2017, Miles has exceeded expectations with her immediate production and maturity, drawing parallels to Ricky Rubio's morale-boosting impact on the Timberwolves but with superior on-court performance.
Quick Facts
Who
Olivia Miles
What
Miles became best player on Lynx team with best record in league
When
2026 season
Where
Minnesota Lynx
- Miles became best player on Lynx team with best record in league
- Miles drafted second overall and settled in without typical rookie struggles
- Collier suffered major ankle injury
- Three prominent rotation players departed in free agency
- Miles was restrained by coach during game against Las Vegas Aces
The Minnesota Lynx are experiencing an unexpected resurgence behind rookie sensation Olivia Miles, who has emerged as the best player on the league's best team despite the organization's significant roster turnover. The second overall draft pick has impressed observers not only with her on-court performance but also with her infectious energy and confidence, drawing comparisons to Ricky Rubio's impact on the Minnesota Timberwolves—though Miles' contribution extends far beyond morale. Unlike Rubio, who lifted spirits during Minnesota's basketball doldrums, Miles is excelling in a winning context, demonstrating remarkable poise and production as a rookie.
The Lynx faced considerable challenges heading into the season. After losing key contributors including Alanna Smith, Jess Shepherd, and Natisha Hiedeman to free agency, many expected the team to regress. Additionally, the franchise has endured years of frustration since winning their last championship in 2017, compounded by a controversial closeout loss to the New York Liberty in recent finals and a major ankle injury to star player Napheesa Collier. Despite these headwinds, Miles has settled seamlessly into her role, bringing a rare combination of excellence and genuine joy to the game that resonates with fans and teammates alike.
What distinguishes Miles from other prospects is her maturity and immediate impact. Having spent six years in college basketball and extensive time in high-caliber tournament competition, the rookie has avoided the typical "welcome to the league" struggles that many young players experience. Coach Cheryl Reeve recently had to physically restrain Miles from antagonizing Las Vegas Aces MVP, illustrating her competitive fire and comfort at the highest level of play. This combination of skill, confidence, and infectious enthusiasm offers hope for the franchise's future, particularly with the expected return of Collier and the potential for the two to pair for at least five years ahead.
Topics
Why This Matters
Olivia Miles' breakthrough season offers a compelling narrative for sports fans: despite significant roster losses and a championship drought spanning seven years, the Lynx have found renewed success through intelligent drafting and a rookie's exceptional maturity and skill. For readers invested in professional women's basketball, this story highlights how a single transformative player can reshape franchise trajectory, while also illustrating the value of extended college development in preparing athletes for elite competition. The potential partnership between Miles and Napheesa Collier upon the latter's return suggests sustainable competitive windows ahead—crucial for long-term franchise viability and fan engagement.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2004
WireTimberwolves reached conference finals
Jan 1, 2017
WireLynx won their last championship
Jun 17, 2026
WireArticle published comparing Olivia Miles to Ricky Rubio