Olivia Miles gave the Minnesota Lynx a scare Wednesday when she rolled her left ankle during their 77-66 win over the Golden State Valkyries. The rookie guard had been outstanding before leaving, finishing with 20 points on 8-of-10 shooting, seven assists and five rebounds. She stepped on Napheesa Collier’s foot during a defensive possession and did not return after briefly visiting the locker room.
The injury initially left Miles’ status for Friday’s matchup with the Washington Mystics uncertain. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve did not have an immediate update after Wednesday’s game (h/t Andrew Dukowitz of Zone Coverage). But Minnesota subsequently listed Miles as probable for the final game of its four-game road trip.
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Ahead of tip-off, the Lynx announced that Miles is available to play Friday against Washington. The decision gives Minnesota its dynamic rookie guard as it tries to extend its winning streak.
Reeve provided further reassurance during her pregame media availability, saying Miles was a full participant in shootaround and should be good to go. “Haven’t heard anything that would keep her [out] … I think I would know by now if there was concern about her competing tonight,” Reeve said, via Cassidy Hettesheimer of the Minnesota Star Tribune).
Miles enters the game averaging 19.9 points, 4.7 rebounds and 6.2 assists while shooting 50.3% from the field and 40.7% from 3-point range.
She is one of the biggest reasons Minnesota ranks as the best team in the WNBA. The No. 2 overall pick has quickly become a major offensive option alongside Collier, Kayla McBride and Natasha Howard, while her playmaking has given the Lynx another way to control games.
Her availability is particularly important with Collier ruled out for rest. Her absence means Minnesota will need Miles, McBride, Howard and Courtney Williams to lead the team.
The Lynx enter Friday 30-7, winners of five straight and owners of the WNBA’s best record. They face a Washington team that is 21-14 and coming off a win over the Toronto Tempo. The Mystics have won eight straight at home and will have a healthy roster available for the matchup.
The game tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET at CareFirst Arena.
