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Olivia Miles’ Record-Setting Rookie Start Powers Lynx as Coaches Shift Tactics

Her early-season scoring and playmaking have made her the clear favorite for Rookie of the Year and forced opponents to change how they defend Minnesota.

Overview

  • Miles has produced an unprecedented rookie run, averaging about 19 points and 5.7 assists while setting the WNBA mark for points generated in a player’s first 15 games and leading all rookies in win shares.
  • Her play has helped Minnesota compile one of the league’s best records and a top net rating with the 12-3 Lynx winning on the strength of her on-court impact.
  • Sportsbooks and media have reacted to her early dominance by elevating her as the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year and placing her in early MVP conversations.
  • Opponents have begun adjusting defensively, and Miles had her first major shooting slump in a 81-75 win over Golden State on Friday when she shot 1-for-10 and committed six turnovers, a game Cheryl Reeve called “a tremendous growth point.”
  • Minnesota’s veteran core and Reeve’s coaching have absorbed off nights and protected Miles’ development, a support that raises the stakes for the Lynx when All-Star Napheesa Collier returns and shapes what to watch next.