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Jun 18, 20261
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Olivia Miles Sets WNBA Rookie Record as Lynx Defeat Sparks 99-83
Olivia Miles set a WNBA rookie record with 24 first-half points and finished with 31 total points as the Minnesota Lynx defeated the Los Angeles Sparks 99-83 on Wednesday night. Miles, the No. 2 overall pick, shot 12 of 15 from the field in a career-high performance that led the Lynx to their 10th win in their last 11 games.
Quick Facts
Who
Olivia Miles
What
Olivia Miles set WNBA rookie record with 24 first-half points
When
Wednesday night
Where
Los Angeles
- Olivia Miles set WNBA rookie record with 24 first-half points
- Miles scored career-high 31 points
- Minnesota Lynx defeated Los Angeles Sparks
- Kelsey Plum missed game due to leg injury
- Olivia Miles
Olivia Miles established a WNBA rookie record with 24 first-half points en route to a career-high 31 points as the Minnesota Lynx dominated the Los Angeles Sparks 99-83 on Wednesday night in Los Angeles. The No. 2 overall pick demonstrated exceptional efficiency, shooting 12 of 15 from the field in a dominant performance that showcased her offensive prowess in her inaugural season.
The Lynx received strong contributions across their roster to secure the victory. Natasha Howard added 15 points and nine rebounds, Kayla McBride contributed 14 points, and Courtney Williams recorded 13 points and five assists. Nia Coffey also made an impact with a career-high five steals. Minnesota's balanced attack reflected their strong form, as the team improved to 12-3 on the season and extended their recent success to 10 wins in their last 11 games.
For Los Angeles, Rae Burrell led the Sparks with 19 points, while rookie Jihyun Park contributed 13 points despite entering the game with just six points on the season. Dearica Hamby and Nneka Ogwumike provided additional support with 12 and 10 points respectively. The Sparks, now 7-8, were hampered by the absence of star player Kelsey Plum, who averages 25 points per game but did not play due to a leg injury.
Minnesota's control of the game was evident from the opening quarter, with Courtney Williams hitting crucial shots including a mid-range jumper and a three-pointer to give the Lynx a lead they would not relinquish, ending the first quarter with a 23-19 advantage.
Topics
Why This Matters
Miles’ record-setting night signals a possible breakout season for a top draft pick and reinforces Minnesota’s status as a contender. For fans and bettors, her efficiency and the Lynx’s strong recent form are both actionable indicators: Minnesota is trending up, while Los Angeles remains vulnerable without Kelsey Plum’s scoring. Watch whether Miles can sustain this level and whether the Sparks can stabilize once their injured star returns.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireMinnesota Lynx defeated Los Angeles Sparks 99-83; Olivia Miles set WNBA rookie record with 24 first-half points and career-high 31 total points
Jun 20, 2026
WireMinnesota Lynx play at Golden State (upcoming)
Jun 22, 2026
WireLos Angeles Sparks host New York (upcoming)