Rising Stars: Manning, Miles, Maxey Make TIME100 Next List
TIME magazine has recognized several emerging athletes on its 2026 list of influential rising stars, including Texas quarterback Arch Manning, Minnesota Lynx rookie Olivia Miles, and Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey. Miles was named 2026 WNBA Rookie of the Year after leading Minnesota to the top playoff seed while breaking Caitlin Clark's rookie scoring record. Manning has led Texas to an undefeated start in his second season as the Longhorns' full-time starter.
TIME's 2026 recognition encompasses athletes across multiple sports, reflecting a broader trend of early-career prominence in professional and collegiate athletics. Manning's inclusion marks a significant moment for Texas football, as he enters a crucial stretch of competition that will test his development as a quarterback against elite opponents. Meanwhile, Miles' achievement of surpassing Clark's rookie scoring record represents a notable milestone in WNBA history, accomplished despite the Lynx's unexpected playoff upset just one day prior to the announcement.
This recognition of emerging athletes may influence how young sports professionals navigate sponsorships, media visibility, and career trajectories during formative years. The prominence given to college and professional athletes alike could shape public expectations around early achievement and accelerate commercial opportunities for recognized individuals. Additionally, the TIME100 Next designation may impact recruitment narratives in college sports and establish benchmarks for evaluating rookie-season performance across different leagues.