Olivia Miles Makes Historic Start as Lynx Rally Past Wings 90–86

Just three games into her professional career, Olivia Miles is already reshaping expectations in Minnesota and drawing comparisons to some of the most accomplished players in WNBA history. The No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 draft has made an immediate impact for the Lynx, combining scoring, playmaking, and poise well beyond her experience level.

That early promise was on full display Thursday night as Minnesota overcame a double-digit deficit to defeat the Dallas Wings 90–86. Miles played a central role in the comeback, continuing her strong start to life in the league.

Across 32 minutes of action, she delivered another well-rounded performance, contributing efficiently on both ends of the floor. Her ability to consistently generate offense and facilitate for teammates has quickly made her a focal point of Minnesota’s system.

With just three games completed, Miles is already producing at a level that places her among some of the most accomplished rookie starts in league history.

1. Record-Setting Rookie Production

Miles finished the win over Dallas with 15 points, six assists, two rebounds, and a block while shooting 7-of-12 from the field. Her control of the offense once again stood out as she helped guide Minnesota through key stretches of the game. Through her first three WNBA appearances, she is averaging 16.3 points, seven assists, 3.7 rebounds, and one block per game. She has also led the Lynx in assists in every contest so far, immediately establishing herself as the team’s primary facilitator. Her production has already placed her in rare company alongside some of the league’s most decorated players. Miles became only the third player in WNBA history to record at least 10 points and five assists in each of her first three career games, joining Sue Bird and Candace Parker. In addition, she is one of only five players ever to average at least 15 points and five assists through their first three games, joining an elite group that includes Bird, Parker, Caitlin Clark, and Nikki McCray.

2. Historic Statistical Milestones Early

Beyond efficiency and consistency, Miles has also reached several statistical milestones at an unprecedented pace. She has accumulated 49 points and 21 assists through three games, matching Caitlin Clark for the fourth-most assists by any player through their first three career games. Even more notably, she became the first rookie in league history to record at least 45 points and 20 assists across her first three outings. That combination of scoring and playmaking has highlighted her immediate two-way offensive impact. Her early-season numbers reflect both volume and balance, as she has managed to contribute without forcing her game. The Lynx have leaned on her ability to control tempo and create opportunities for teammates in transition and half-court sets. While still early in her career, the statistical start has already separated her from typical rookie trajectories and placed her on a historically significant path.

3. Lynx Rally Completes Team Effort

Minnesota’s win was also defined by a strong second-half comeback after trailing by 12 points earlier in the game. Dallas led 48–40 at halftime and carried a 70–68 advantage into the fourth quarter before the Lynx closed the game with a 22–16 final frame. Veteran leadership played a key role in the turnaround. Natasha Howard led Minnesota with 26 points, five rebounds, four assists, and three blocks on highly efficient 11-of-14 shooting, anchoring both ends of the floor. Courtney Williams added 21 points on near-perfect shooting, while Nia Coffey contributed 13 points and eight rebounds. Kayla McBride also provided steady production with 11 points and strong free-throw shooting down the stretch. Dallas was led by Paige Bueckers, who finished with 27 points and eight assists, while Maddy Siegrist added 17 first-half points. Rookie Azzi Fudd contributed eight points off the bench in her second professional appearance.