Caitlin Clark is currently enjoying a remarkable season, emerging as a key player despite facing early challenges due to injuries. As discussions around the MVP race intensify, Clark's contributions are pivotal for Team USA, which is pursuing its fifth consecutive gold medal at the FIBA Women’s World Cup.
However, WNBA icon Diana Taurasi has recently drawn attention to another player, Minnesota Lynx rookie Olivia Miles. Taurasi believes Miles is a talent to watch closely, as she has quickly established herself as a frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award and is also making waves in the MVP conversation.
During a recent episode of Bill Simmons’ podcast, Taurasi was asked about the standout players from the latest crop of talent in the league. She did not hesitate to mention Miles, stating, “Olivia Miles is a special talent. She was a little under the radar before she did leave Notre Dame and she went to TCU, which was a little bit of a smaller school. This kid is doing stuff that, she has Kyrie-like handles. She can shoot the basketball, she can get in the lane.”
These remarks highlight Miles' impressive performance, as she is currently averaging 19.7 points and 6 assists per game over 30 minutes, helping the Lynx achieve a 31-9 record and secure the top position in the league standings.
This is not the first time Taurasi has shown her preference for emerging talents over established stars. In a previous podcast appearance in 2025, she endorsed Paige Bueckers as a future standout in the WNBA, underscoring her belief in the potential of younger players.
Despite not receiving Taurasi's endorsement as the top player, Caitlin Clark is set to make her debut in the FIBA Women’s World Cup on Friday. She is expected to be a crucial player for Team USA as they aim for another gold medal.
In an interview with FIBA ahead of the tournament, Clark expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to represent her country. She acknowledged the pressure that comes with her role but emphasized her appreciation for being in such a position. “How lucky am I? This is pretty special and pretty cool, and there’s so many people that would kill to be in this spot and have this type of opportunity,” Clark shared. “Especially to play for the USA team, let alone play in the WNBA and live out your dream every single day.”
Clark also reflected on the challenges of high expectations, stating, “Sure, there are moments where it’s exhausting, and it’s a lot. There’s a lot of attention, but that’s what you sign up for, and that’s what you dream of.”
Although she missed the chance to compete in the Olympic Games in Paris two years ago, Clark's hard work has led her to this moment, where she is ready to lead Team USA in their quest for gold at the prestigious event.
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