Olivia Miles named Rookie of the Year in deep WNBA class
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 11:31 AM
Last updated Sep 24, 2026
The Athletic's experts selected Olivia Miles as the 2026 WNBA Rookie of the Year, highlighting her exceptional performance that included a push for MVP candidacy. Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 draft pick, ranked second after averaging 13 points per game for the Dallas Wings. A three-way tie for third among rookies was notable for players Sydney Taylor, Flau’jae Johnson, and Pauline Astier. The experts praised the depth of this rookie class as one of the most talented in WNBA history. The Defensive Player of the Year voting was led by Angel Reese, with Gabby Williams and A’ja Wilson following.
- •Olivia Miles received unanimous Rookie of the Year honors.
- •Azzi Fudd averaged 13 points and started 24 games.
- •Sydney Taylor, Flau’jae Johnson, and Pauline Astier tied for third.
- •Angel Reese won Defensive Player of the Year with significant voting support.
- •This rookie class is noted for its impressive depth.
- 11:31 AMYahoo Sports — Olivia Miles is our Rookie of the Year. But who else stood out in a deep WNBA class?
"As the playoff picture is finally coming into focus, it’s fitting that the final seeds won’t be settled until the last day of the season. You know what’s not being left until the last day of the season? The Athletic’s experts taking stock of the league and making decisions on year-end awards. We unveiled our choices for Most Improved Player and Coach of the Year on Wednesday. Now, we continue with our Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year Award, and Friday, we’ll showcase our MVP a
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