In a surprising twist that’s sent shockwaves through the women’s college basketball world, Notre Dame star guard Olivia Miles has entered the transfer portal — and speculation is swirling about what led to the decision. While no official reason has been given, some analysts and insiders believe the emergence of freshman phenom Hannah Hidalgo may have played a key role.
Miles, a dynamic floor general known for her elite vision and playmaking, has been the face of Notre Dame basketball in recent seasons. Her presence on the court consistently elevated the Fighting Irish, and many expected her to return for one final campaign in South Bend. Instead, the junior has decided to explore her options, throwing her name into the transfer portal and igniting a wave of conversation.
At the heart of that conversation? The meteoric rise of Hannah Hidalgo.
Hidalgo burst onto the scene during the 2024-25 season, putting up jaw-dropping numbers and quickly establishing herself as one of the top guards in the nation. Her aggressive defense, fast-paced play, and scoring ability made her a fan favorite and a centerpiece for the Irish offense. But with two ball-dominant guards on the roster, questions naturally arose about how the two could coexist.
“Let’s be honest — there’s only one basketball,” said one national analyst on a recent podcast. “Hidalgo has been too good to play off the ball, and Olivia Miles has built her identity as a lead point guard. When you have two players who thrive with the ball in their hands, someone eventually has to make a move.”
Sources close to the Notre Dame program suggest that while there was no known conflict between the two guards, the fit on the court was far from seamless. Hidalgo often took on the role of primary ball-handler this season, even when Miles was healthy and dressed. That shift may have signaled to Miles that her role was changing — or diminishing — leading to her decision to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
“Olivia wants to lead a team,” the analyst continued. “She has that alpha mentality. She’s not going to spend her final college season playing second fiddle.”
So where might she land?
Speculation is running wild, but one name keeps surfacing: LSU. With Hailey Van Lith departing and a strong core already in place, LSU could offer Miles the opportunity to step into a starring role on a national contender. Head coach Kim Mulkey has a history of embracing transfers and building around star talent, and Miles’ pass-first style could complement returning post players and scorers alike.
Another potential landing spot? South Carolina. While Dawn Staley’s squad is already loaded, adding a guard of Miles’ caliber could further solidify their dominance. But playing time and style of play will likely be key factors in Miles’ decision.
Meanwhile, Notre Dame now faces a new chapter. While the loss of Miles is significant, the program remains in good hands with Hidalgo, who has proven she can carry the weight of leadership even as an underclassman.
Notre Dame head coach Niele Ivey has yet to comment publicly on the transfer, but many expect the program to lean heavily into Hidalgo’s development going forward. “She’s the future,” one team insider said. “And the future starts now.”
As for Miles, she leaves Notre Dame with a legacy of highlight-reel passes, clutch performances, and a passion for the game that’s impossible to ignore. Whether her next stop is in the SEC, Big Ten, or elsewhere, one thing is certain — she’s not done making headlines.
The portal era has rewritten the rules of college sports, and Olivia Miles’ move is just the latest reminder. In a world where fit matters as much as talent, stars are seeking places where their game — and their voice — can shine.
And as Hannah Hidalgo continues to rise, it’s clear that her presence may have shaped one of the biggest offseason moves yet.
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