Olivia Miles Leads TCU to Historic Road Win Over N.C. State

A remarkable achievement unfolded on January 14, 2024, as Olivia Miles propelled the Texas Christian University (TCU) women’s basketball team to its first non-conference Top 25 road victory in 14 years. The Horned Frogs’ success against N.C. State, ranked 22nd in the nation, highlights a significant turning point for the program and signals TCU’s growing competitiveness within collegiate basketball.

In a thrilling matchup held in Raleigh, North Carolina, Miles, a guard who transferred from Notre Dame, displayed exceptional skill and leadership. She scored a remarkable 27 points, contributing significantly to the team’s 80-76 victory. Her performance not only showcased her talent but also marked a pivotal moment for TCU, which had struggled to secure victories in high-stakes situations away from home in recent years.

Miles’ experience facing high-pressure teams like N.C. State added to her confidence as she led her team through a challenging game. “It felt amazing to win on the road against such a strong opponent,” Miles remarked after the game. “We worked hard to prepare for this, and I think it shows that we can compete with the best.”

The Horned Frogs’ victory is particularly noteworthy as it breaks a lengthy drought in non-conference road wins against ranked teams. TCU’s last similar triumph occurred in 2010, underscoring the significance of this achievement for both the players and the coaching staff.

Teamwork and Strategy Shine Through

TCU’s success was not solely attributed to Miles’ individual efforts. The Horned Frogs demonstrated a cohesive team strategy throughout the game. Strong contributions came from several players, with Jordan Moore adding 15 points and 8 rebounds, and Emily Fisher scoring 14 points, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad.

Head Coach Raegan Pebley praised her team’s resilience and tactical execution. “This victory is a testament to our hard work and commitment,” she said. “We have focused on building a strong team culture, and today it paid off. The players executed our game plan beautifully.”

The match was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging leads. TCU’s defense proved crucial in the closing moments, stifling N.C. State’s attempts to reclaim control. The Horned Frogs held their nerve in the final minutes, free-throw shooting further sealing their victory.

Impacts and Future Prospects

This historic win not only boosts TCU’s confidence but also enhances its positioning within the NCAA rankings. The Horned Frogs are now poised to make a significant impact as they approach the latter part of the season, with upcoming games against conference rivals that could shape their tournament prospects.

The victory against N.C. State also serves as a crucial benchmark for Miles. Having previously played in high-stakes games at Notre Dame, she is now establishing herself as a leader at TCU. Her ability to perform under pressure will be vital as the team aims for success in the Big 12 Conference.

As TCU celebrates this milestone, the focus shifts to maintaining momentum in the season ahead. With a talented roster and a winning mentality, the Horned Frogs are set to challenge expectations and aim for a deep run in the postseason.