“If Olivia Miles Doesn’t Play, We’re Not 31-7”: Cheryl Reeve Fuels Rookie’s MVP Case Over A’ja Wilson and Others Citing Team Record

Olivia Miles downplayed injury concerns when she suited up for the Minnesota Lynx against the Washington Mystics on Friday. Miles finished with 24 points, three rebounds, seven assists, and three steals as she led the Lynx to a 94-84 victory.

Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve backed Miles to win the MVP award this season.

“You have a 31-7 team…If Olivia Miles doesn’t play, we’re not 31-7, and so, to me, I think MVP awards should go to teams that are at the top, especially if that player, if she’s not out there, we have a hard time being where we are.”

Miles, who was picked second overall in this year’s WNBA draft, leads all rookies in scoring (20.0 ppg) and assists (6.2 apg). On a team with veterans like Kayla McBride, Napheesa Collier, and Courtney Williams, Miles is No. 2 in win shares, No. 2 in player efficiency rating (PER), and No. 3 in offensive rating.

While Collier has featured in the MVP conversation over the past few years, it’s Miles who now figures in the debate with the likes of Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, and four-time MVP A’ja Wilson.

Interestingly, Olivia Miles appears unbothered by her standing in the MVP race.

In the post-game media session, Miles said her inclusion in the MVP conversation this season is not a matter of huge importance.

“I really just don’t care…I love my teammates first and I love winning.”

Miles’ playmaking has helped the Lynx become the first team to clinch a spot in the WNBA playoffs.

READ MORE:

WNBA MVP Voter Ranks Caitlin Clark No. 2 Behind A’ja Wilson, Ahead of Olivia Miles

Cowboys Legend Makes 3-Word Declaration About Olivia Miles Amid Heated Race With Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson

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