The United States solidified its dominance in women’s basketball on Sunday, absolutely crushing France in the FIBA World Cup’s gold-medal game in Berlin, Germany. This incredible win marked their fifth consecutive World Cup victory. But the world might not be ready for what’s coming next, because USA Today Sports is already confidently projecting a new face on the 2028 Olympic roster: Olivia Miles. Her impending arrival is going to give opposing coaches major headaches trying to stop Team USA from winning gold a ninth consecutive time.
Why Miles Sat Out (For Now)
Even with the US showing out big time, managing director Sue Bird made a tough call by not bringing Olivia Miles onto the 12-player roster for the World Cup. It might seem wild to leave a player like Miles at home, especially when she’s a rising superstar for the Minnesota Lynx, the prohibitive Rookie of the Year favorite, and a bonafide MVP contender in the WNBA. But Bird and the USA Basketball brain trust had an understandable reason. The US hierarchy prioritizes experience, both in the WNBA and in international competition. Miles hasn’t met either of those requirements yet. She had to watch from back in the United States, continuing her prep for the WNBA’s return, while Team USA took home the gold. It was a strategic, if painful, decision.
The Game-Changer Arrives in 2028
While Miles didn’t hit the court in Berlin, all eyes are definitely on her future, especially looking toward the 2028 Olympics. USA Today Sports isn’t just hinting; they’re confidently projecting Miles will be on that Olympic roster. Mitchell Northam from USA Today put it bluntly, saying Sue Bird has some seriously challenging decisions coming. “Leaving (Kahleah) Copper off the roster after a strong World Cup might be a hard call, as will excluding (Sabrina) Ionescu and (Kelsey) Plum, but it’s difficult to ignore Miles and (JuJu) Watkins’ talent.” You can see why. Miles’ game is practically tailor-made for FIBA and Olympic play. International rules really lean into player athleticism and efficiency, less on pure physical superiority. Think about how effective guards like Paige Bueckers and Jackie Young were in Germany. By 2028, Miles will be even better than she is now, too good to leave off. She’ll have built up two-and-a-half seasons of professional experience. Opposing coaches are going to be scrambling to figure out how to handle her!
So, what’s next for this phenom? The Lynx jump back into action this Friday with a blockbuster showdown against the New York Liberty. This is where Miles continues to build that experience, earn those minutes, and solidify her spot for 2028. Every game she plays now is a step towards making Team USA truly unstoppable.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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