On July 2, 2025, 6‑foot guard Ava Miles—the No. 81 recruit in ESPN’s 2026 class—committed to Nebraska women’s basketball, choosing them over Big Ten contenders Maryland and Michigan State . A product of Kansas City’s Staley High School, Miles averaged 14.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 3.8 APG, and 2.8 SPG last season, shooting 50.1% from the field and 33.3% from three .
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Why this is a big win for Nebraska
1. Big‑time competitor
Ranked a four‑star recruit by ESPN, Ava Miles brings high-level athleticism and competitive spirit. Her impressive statline—including near 3 steals per game—underscores her well-rounded game .
2. Adds depth in the backcourt
Nebraska’s 2025 class was slim—just one top freshman (Alanna Neale). With Miles in the fold, the 2026 class immediately grows in talent and promise .
3. Boosts momentum under Amy Williams
Coach Amy Williams has built her program on strong recruiting and transfer strategy. After picking up four experienced transfers in 2025, Miles’ high school commitment continues that upward recruiting trajectory .
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MSU and Maryland edged out
By flipping Miles from other Big Ten programs, Nebraska weakens rival classes. Michigan State and Maryland—both vying for her—are left empty-handed in this battle, while the Cornhuskers land yet another Rivals‑ranked talent .
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Looking ahead
Miles’ commitment is the first for Nebraska’s 2026 cycle and injects energy comparable to past classes that included Britt Prince and Alanna Neale . With Miles in Lincoln, Amy Williams now has a talented, versatile guard who can grow into a leadership role in the years ahead.
This win not only elevates Nebraska’s soon-to-be roster but also highlights their ability to recruit—and sign—elite talent over power-conference peers. As momentum builds, Huskers fans can be excited about what comes next.
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At roughly 380 words, this captures the significance: standout recruit, program-building impact, and the ripple effects on Nebraska and Michigan State’s Big Ten recruiting landscape.