For the majority of their clash with Iowa State, TCU found themselves trailing and facing the possibility of their home streak coming to an end. The Cyclones’ strong defense kept the Horned Frogs on the back foot, building a commanding 66-53 lead with just over seven minutes remaining in the game. But, as we have seen so often this season, TCU’s Olivia Miles refused to let her team go down without a fight.
Miles, a freshman point guard, put on a show for the ages, leading the Horned Frogs to a thrilling 75-72 comeback victory over the Cyclones. In doing so, she not only solidified her place as one of the top players in the Big 12, but also entered legendary company in the conference’s history.
With 26 points, 12 assists, and 9 rebounds, Miles became just the fourth player in Big 12 history to record a 20-point, 10-assist, and 5-rebound game. The other three players to achieve this feat were all All-Americans and WNBA stars – Brittney Griner, Odyssey Sims, and Moriah Jefferson. This is a testament to the level of talent and skill that Miles possesses, and she has only just begun her college career.
But it wasn’t just her impressive statistics that made Miles’ performance stand out. It was the way she took control of the game when her team needed her the most. With TCU down by double digits, Miles refused to let her team give up. She attacked the basket relentlessly, drawing fouls and getting to the free throw line. She also dished out assists to her teammates, getting them involved in the offense and creating scoring opportunities.
Miles’ leadership and determination on the court were evident throughout the game, but it was in the final minutes that she truly shone. With TCU down by two points with just over a minute remaining, Miles hit a clutch three-pointer to give her team the lead. She then followed it up with a layup and two free throws to seal the victory for the Horned Frogs. Her calm and composed demeanor in pressure situations is a rare quality for a freshman, and it bodes well for the future of TCU women’s basketball.
This historic night for Miles and the Horned Frogs is just the latest in a string of impressive performances by the freshman phenom. She is currently leading the Big 12 in assists per game and is second in steals per game. She has also been named the Big 12 Freshman of the Week three times this season, a testament to her consistent and impactful play.
But Miles’ success on the court is not just a result of her individual talent. It is also a product of the supportive and nurturing environment at TCU. Head coach Raegan Pebley has created a culture of hard work and team-first mentality, and Miles has thrived under her guidance. She has also received invaluable mentorship from senior leaders like Lauren Heard and Aahliyah Jackson, who have helped her adjust to the college game and grow as a player and a person.
As TCU continues to make a name for itself in the highly competitive Big 12 conference, Olivia Miles will undoubtedly be at the forefront of their success. Her historic night against Iowa State is just a glimpse of what is to come from this talented and driven young player. TCU fans should be excited to see her continue to make her mark in the conference and lead their team to more victories.
In conclusion, Olivia Miles’ performance against Iowa State was not just a remarkable individual achievement, but also a testament to the strength and resilience of the TCU women’s basketball team. Her entry into the legendary company of Big 12 greats is a sign of her immense potential and the bright future that lies ahead for her and the Horned Frogs. With her determination and talent, Miles is set to leave a lasting legacy at TCU and make her mark on the college basketball world.
