The recent blockbuster deal involving Kelsey Plum and Jewell Loyd was limited to more than just the teams involved. It has shaken up the WNBA Draft order, making way for potential surprises. And one of them is Olivia Miles. The Notre Dame standout has been linked to Chicago, with speculation that she could land with Angel Reese and the Sky at No. 3. But as the draft approaches, that possibility seems to be slipping away.
In a recent episode of Angel Reese’s podcast, Unapologetically Angel, with WNBA legend Lisa Leslie, the two ended up discussing the free agency and the 2025 draft class.
“LA [ meant to say Seattle Storm] is gonna be interesting with picks too, because Olivia Miles,” Leslie began. However, Reese quickly responded, “We’re trying to get her.” As the dynamics of the upcoming WNBA Draft continue to shift, Leslie pointed out that Miles’ draft stock is rising. “I know, but she might up that stock. She might end up at two now,” Leslie said. “I know,” Reese replied.
Aug 25, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) looks to pass the ball against the Las Vegas Aces during the first half at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Predicted no.4 in earlier mock drafts, Miles has now risen to number no.2, with Seattle Storm predicted to make the move. Having lost Loyd, the young guard seems like a good boost for the franchise. However, that could spell disappointment for Chicago with their no.3 pick. That wouldn’t have been the case prior to Plum-Loyd trade, given Miles never was predicted on LA Sparks radar, who originally held no.2.
The guard, nonetheless, has been dominant at Notre Dame, currently averaging 16.5 points and 6.4 assists per game. Not only that, but she also shoots 42.3% from deep, showcasing her efficiency as a scorer. Her playmaking ability and court vision make her an elite guard—so much so that Candace Parker has praised her, calling her “her favorite player to watch in college basketball.”
While Chicago still has opportunities to strengthen its backcourt, missing out on Miles would be a tough pill to swallow. For now, Sonia Citron, another Notre Dame guard, averaging 12.9 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists, remains a leading option for the team. “One of the two,” Reese settles. However, the Chi-Town Barbie herself could be the key to making the Sky stronger.
Lisa Leslie’s plan to help Angel Reese elevate her game
Ever since Reese’s debut in Unrivaled, she and Leslie have developed a strong relationship. They’d hit the court together ahead of Unrivaled, Leslie then appeared on Reese’s McDonald’s commercial, and now we have her offering the Sky star a stern message regarding her performance– finishing layups.
Reese has faced criticism for her struggles in this area throughout her rookie season. But Leslie believes it’s an easy fix.
“I can’t wait to work with you some more. The biggest advice I have for you is going to be how you shoot your layups,” Leslie told Reese when asked what advice she had for her heading into her second season. “We’re going to fix that.”
And Leslie is right.
Reese averaged 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds in her WNBA debut season. However, she shot just 44.5% on attempts within five feet and 42.4% on layups. While she finished as the WNBA Rookie of the Year runner-up and shot 39.1% from the field, there is still plenty of room for improvement.
If Reese can refine these areas, the Chicago Sky will be an even tougher team next season—especially considering that their leading scorer, Chennedy Carter, remains unsigned.
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