The WNBA has grown in popularity over the last few years, and with it, social media discussions have multiplied. In a recent interview, Minnesota Lynx star Olivia Miles commented on the increased discourse and criticism from social media users.
On Thursday’s episode of “The Young Man and The Three,” Miles addressed the challenge of ignoring false narratives on social media.
“It’s so hard. Sometimes I just want to reply,” Miles said. “I’m like, ‘Olivia, please don’t get.’ ‘Cause it’s not worth it. Like, they have nothing to lose (and) we have everything to lose on our end. It’s so hard to sit there and be like, ‘This is not true.’ Or like, ‘You don’t have no idea what you’re talking about.’ … So, you just gotta take it.”
Miles, the No. 2 pick of the 2026 WNBA draft, is coming off a standout performance during her rookie season, averaging 19.8 points, 6.0 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game on 49.2% shooting, including 38.8% from 3-point range. She played a key role for the top-seeded Lynx, which finished 33-11.
In addition to being unanimously named Rookie of the Year, Miles was the runner-up for WNBA MVP behind Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson. She also earned All-Star honors, an All-WNBA First Team selection, and a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team.
Olivia Miles comments on toxic social media discourse
In a clip from “The Young Man and The Three,” Minnesota Lynx star Olivia Miles urged fans on social media to focus on basketball instead of off-court issues. She noted that increased discussion is positive, but it should remain safe and respectful.
“It is good for our game to have discourse, to have people care and talking about it,” Miles said. “I think some of the topics get kind of dicey. And that’s maybe what I would change is like, maybe we focus a little more on basketball and less (on) the external stuff.
“But even so, having people talk and pay attention is what we ask for, right? We can’t ask for all the good and have no bad as well. There’s a balance there, and there’s meaning in those conversations as well. It’s all growing our game one way or another.”
Driven by the WNBA’s growth, social media discussions over the past months have intensified and have reached new heights. Several players and coaches have been victims of harassment and threats, including racial abuse. Additionally, some pundits have said they have been harassed online, too.
Read more:
“She’s so good with her right hand” – Olivia Miles Gets Honest On Caitlin Clark’s ‘Annoying’ Game
Top 10 WNBA Free Agents for 2027 ft. Napheesa Collier
Edited by Kim Daniel Rubinos
