Olivia Miles Emerges as Early WNBA Rookie of the Year Favorite After Dominant Debut Season Start

The 2026 WNBA season is only days old, yet Minnesota Lynx rookie guard Olivia Miles has already positioned herself as the clear frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award. Drafted No. 2 overall by the Lynx following a standout collegiate career at Notre Dame and TCU, Miles has wasted no time proving her elite talent at the professional level.

In her WNBA debut on May 9, 2026, Miles delivered a historic performance in a 91-90 loss to the Atlanta Dream at Target Center. She recorded 21 points, 8 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks, showcasing the all-around skill set that could make her a future superstar. The Lynx, who lost half of their rotation during the offseason, are already seeing the impact of their prized rookie.

“She’s gonna be a heck of a player in our league. One game under her belt, but she’s a generational passer. That’s what I would say. She’s just got elite level vision.”
— Nate Thibault, Head Coach, Phoenix Mercury

Miles followed up her debut with another strong outing on May 13, 2026, contributing 13 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists in a win over the Phoenix Mercury. Her early-season dominance has sparked conversations about her Rookie of the Year potential, despite the season’s infancy.

Other Top WNBA Rookies to Watch in 2026

While Miles stands out, several other first-round draft picks and undrafted rookies have made early impressions:

• Azzi Fudd (No. 1, Dallas Wings) – Scored just 3 points on two field goal attempts in her season opener, coming off the bench. The Wings’ guard depth may limit her early opportunities.
• Awa Fam (No. 3, Seattle Storm) – Still overseas; her WNBA debut date with the Storm remains undetermined.
• Lauren Betts (No. 4, Washington Mystics) – Playing a reserve role behind Shakira Austin and Kiki Iriafen, both of whom are central to the Mystics’ future plans.
• Gabriella Jaquez (No. 5, Chicago Sky) – Recorded 10 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in her season opener. Likely to serve as a key role player for the Sky.

Standout Undrafted Rookies Making Early Waves

• Jovana Nogic (Phoenix Mercury) – A 28-year-old Serbian guard who poured in 19 points in her WNBA debut and followed it with 16 points in her second game.
• Pauline Astier (New York Liberty) – A 24-year-old French guard who has been phenomenal in the early days, though her role may be limited.
• Noemie Brochant (Phoenix Mercury) – Another rookie making an impact in her debut performances.
• Emma Cechova (Minnesota Lynx) – Contributing to the Lynx’s rookie class alongside Miles.

With Miles leading the charge, the 2026 WNBA Rookie of the Year race is already taking shape. While it’s early in the season, her performances suggest she could be on a fast track to stardom.