In a heartfelt message to the Notre Dame community, Olivia Miles, the standout point guard for the Fighting Irish, expressed profound gratitude towards the university’s coaches, staff, alumni, and her teammates. Her acknowledgment comes at a pivotal moment as she prepares to embark on a new chapter in her basketball career with Texas Christian University (TCU).
Early Enrollment and Immediate Impact
Miles’ journey with Notre Dame began with her early enrollment in January 2021, a decision that allowed her to integrate into the team ahead of schedule. This early start was instrumental in her development, providing her with a platform to showcase her exceptional skills. Reflecting on this period, Miles conveyed her appreciation:
“To the ND coaches, staff, and alumni, thank you for believing in me and for your guidance during my early enrollment…”
Overcoming Injury and Rehabilitation
Miles faced a significant setback during her sophomore year when she sustained a knee injury in February 2023. This injury sidelined her for the remainder of the season and posed challenges to her burgeoning career. However, with the unwavering support of Notre Dame’s medical and coaching staff, she embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation journey. Their collective efforts facilitated her return to the court, a testament to her resilience and the program’s commitment to its athletes. Miles acknowledged this support, stating:
“…thank you for believing in me and for your guidance during my… injury, and rehab. Your leadership has truly inspired me.”
Teammate Camaraderie and Growth
Beyond the institutional support, Miles emphasized the profound impact her teammates had on her personal and professional growth. The bonds forged on and off the court contributed significantly to her development as a player and individual. She expressed heartfelt sentiments towards her teammates:
“To my teammates, past and present, I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. I’m incredibly proud of our journey together and can’t wait to see us continue to grow as both players and women—you all have me for life.”
Statistical Highlights and Achievements
During her tenure at Notre Dame, Miles delivered remarkable performances that etched her name in the program’s history. She became the first freshman in NCAA tournament history to record a triple-double, achieving this feat with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists in a victory over UMass. Her sophomore year saw her averaging 14.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game, earning her First-Team All-ACC honors and recognition as a Second-Team All-American by the Associated Press.
Decision to Transfer and Future Aspirations
In March 2025, Miles made the decision to enter the transfer portal, seeking new opportunities to further her academic and athletic pursuits. She announced her commitment to TCU during an appearance on “NBA on TNT,” where she expressed enthusiasm for the next phase of her journey. This move aligns with her aspirations to complete her graduate degree while continuing to compete at a high level in collegiate basketball.
Enduring Legacy and Connection to Notre Dame
As Miles transitions to TCU, her reflections underscore a deep and enduring connection to Notre Dame. She acknowledges that the university will always be a significant part of her story, a place where she grew immensely and formed lasting relationships. Her message encapsulates a blend of gratitude and optimism, highlighting the profound impact of her experiences in South Bend.
Conclusion
Olivia Miles’ journey at Notre Dame is a narrative of talent, perseverance, and community. Her expressions of gratitude illuminate the supportive ecosystem that the university fosters for its athletes. As she embarks on her new chapter with TCU, the foundation built during her time with the Fighting Irish will undoubtedly continue to influence her path. The Notre Dame community, in turn, will remember Miles not only for her on-court achievements but also for the grace and gratitude with which she transitions to new horizons.
SF/PF Nate Ament.