Olivia Miles drops 3-word reaction as Notre Dame teammate returns from long-time injury

Olivia Miles reacted after Notre Dame announced the return of fifth-year forward Maddy Westbeld to the roster on January 5. The Fighting Irish shared a post on Instagram on January 5, featuring some snaps of Westbeld going through her shooting drills in a practice session.

Miles shared their post in her Instagram story, showing her excitement for the new year now that the talented forward has returned to action.

Olivia Miles was excited by Maddy Westbeld's return to Notre Dame following her stint on the sidelines. (Source: https://www.instagram.com/stories/_oliviamiles_/3539073456996401450/)

"Just the start," wrote Miles.

Westbeld missed the start of the 2024-25 season as she underwent surgery to deal with a lingering foot issue that did not heal completely. In a statement issued on September 16, 2024, Westbeld revealed she chose to listen to her body and the surgery was important to improve the longevity of her career.

"I’ve decided to take the necessary time to listen to my body and do what’s best for myself, my teammates, and my career," wrote Westbeld. "This is not a setback by any means. It is a step forward for the longevity of my career and to be at full strength when I return to the court this season.

"While I’ll be on the sideline for the beginning of the year, this doesn’t change the mission and goal for my team. As I learn how to lead and navigate in this capacity, I’m leaning on my family at Notre Dame to guide me through it. I can’t wait to get back on the court with my teammates."

Westbeld was a key figure in Niele Ivey's team last season. She started all 34 games she appeared in and averaged an impressive 14.4 points and 8.7 rebounds, which earned her a place in the All-ACC Second Team.

She also averaged 15.7 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists in the ACC Tournament, helping Notre Dame to the title and earning a spot in the All-ACC Tournament First Team.

Olivia Miles enjoys strong comeback in the 2024-25 season

Olivia Miles has been one of the top players in for Notre Dame since returning from a torn ACL that she suffered in February 2023. She has averaged 16.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 7.1 assists, playing a key role in one of the most feared backcourts in the country alongside Hannah Hidalgo and Sonia Citron.

Westbeld will be keen to replicate Olivia Miles' comeback once she returns to the court, which could make the Fighting Irish one of the favorites for the national championship this season.