When Sophie Cunningham talks about the new wave of talent in the WNBA, she doesn't mince words. The Indiana Fever guard recently sat down with Colin Cowherd and didn't hold back her admiration for Minnesota Lynx rookie Olivia Miles, calling her one of the most explosive young players she's seen. For Cunningham, Miles isn't just a stat sheet filler—she's a force that's changing how the game is played.
Miles, drafted second overall out of Notre Dame, has taken the league by storm. In just 22 games, she became the fastest player in WNBA history to rack up 400 points, 100 rebounds, and 100 assists—a milestone that speaks to her all-around brilliance. She's averaging 19.7 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, numbers that would be impressive for any veteran, let alone a rookie.
A new standard of athleticism
Cunningham pointed out that the league's athletic bar has skyrocketed in recent years. Players are faster, stronger, and more explosive than ever before. And in that landscape, Miles stands out. "She plays like a dude," Cunningham said, a comment she insists is the highest compliment. It's about the way Miles attacks the rim, absorbs contact, and plays with a physicality that's reminiscent of the men's game. For Cunningham, that's not a knock—it's a badge of honor.
That style has earned Miles respect across the league. She's already being mentioned in MVP conversations, and her name is circulating for a spot on the USA Basketball senior roster for the upcoming FIBA World Cup. Even legends like Sue Bird have taken notice. "When you see a rookie come in and dominate like that, it's special," Bird said in a recent interview. "She's got that it factor."
Miles' impact goes beyond numbers. She's brought a new energy to Minnesota, a franchise that's been rebuilding. Her ability to create for herself and others has made the Lynx a must-watch team. And for fans across the Americas, her rise is a reminder of how global the game has become.
For Cunningham, who has been open about the challenges of being a WNBA player, seeing Miles thrive is a sign of progress. "The game is growing, and players like Olivia are the reason," she said. "She's not just a rookie; she's a star in the making."
As the season rolls on, all eyes will be on Miles to see if she can keep this pace. But one thing is clear: she's already left her mark on the league, and her future looks brighter than ever.
