The WNBA Rookie of the Year race is already heating up, and if you thought Azzi Fudd would coast to the top honor, think again. Olivia Miles is emerging as the front-runner, and here's why.

The Minnesota Lynx have a storied history of developing top rookies. No other WNBA franchise has produced more Rookie of the Year winners—five in total, including Crystal Dangerfield (2020) and Napheesa Collier (2019). Now, Olivia Miles is poised to add her name to that legacy.

Drafted second overall in last month's WNBA draft—just one pick behind Azzi Fudd—Miles enters a perfect storm of opportunity. The Lynx, who were WNBA finalists two seasons ago and posted the league's best record in 2025, are entering a transitional phase. With Collier sidelined until at least the All-Star break and key contributors like Alanna Smith, Jessica Shepard, Bridget Carleton, and Natisha Hiedeman lost to free agency, Minnesota is leaning on its rookie playmaker.

ESPN experts have already tipped Miles as the favorite for Rookie of the Year. "Olivia Miles has the perfect mix of talent and opportunity," wrote ESPN's Kareem Copeland. "The No. 2 pick starts from day one on a team that's waiting for Napheesa Collier to get healthy." Head coach Cheryl Reeves is expected to hand Miles the keys to the offense immediately—starting with Saturday night's season opener against the Atlanta Dream.

Contrast that with Fudd's situation in Dallas. While the top overall pick is undeniably talented, she enters a crowded backcourt alongside Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale, making her likely the third option on offense. As ESPN's Michael Voepel noted, "Miles will get a ton of court time and be allowed to play through any growing pains. The car keys are in her hands."

For fans looking to follow the next generation of WNBA stars, keep an eye on Miles—she's not just a candidate for Rookie of the Year; she might be the rookie to beat.