How to Beat Miriam (Academy Ace Tournament): To Academy Tournament

Learn how to defeat Miriam, the school nurse, in the Academy Ace Tournament in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet. Get tips on recommended Pokemon and her team.

So, you're looking to take on Miriam in the Academy Ace Tournament? She's a random opponent you might face in the second tournament round or later, and she can be a bit tricky if you're not prepared. Don't worry, though, I've got your back!

First off, the Academy Ace Tournament itself is a postgame event with four rounds. You'll be facing off against various trainers and faculty from the Academy. To even get to this point, you need to have finished the Area Zero story and reported back to Geeta after the Gym Inspection.

Miriam's Pokémon are usually around Level 65-66, so make sure your team is at least Level 66 or higher to have a good shot. She's got a mix of types, so bringing a balanced team is key. Ground, Bug, and Fire types are generally your best bet against her lineup.

Miriam's Pokémon and How to Counter Them

Let's break down her team:

Hypno (Level 65, Psychic)

This guy's main goal is to put you to sleep with Hypnosis. It also has Zen Headbutt for STAB, Drain Punch to heal itself, and Reflect to weaken your physical attacks. Your best bet here are Bug or Ghost types. Dark types can work too if your Pokémon are strong enough.

Pincurchin (Level 65, Electric)

Watch out for this one! Pincurchin uses Zing Zap for STAB and can set up entry hazards with Spikes and Toxic Spikes. Its Lightning Rod ability means it'll absorb any Electric moves you throw at it. Definitely bring a Ground-type Pokémon to shut this one down.

Sawsbuck (Level 65, Normal/Grass)

Sawsbuck comes with Horn Leech for STAB, Zen Headbutt, Play Rough, and Megahorn. Its Sap Sipper ability makes it immune to Grass moves, so don't bother with those. Fire, Flying, Ice, or Bug types will do well here.

Glalie (Level 65, Ice)

Glalie can hit hard with Freeze-Dry (which is super effective against Water types, by the way!), Ice Shard to go first, Iron Head, and Crunch. Fire, Fighting, and Steel types are your best options to take this one down quickly.

Eelektross (Level 65, Electric)

This Electric-type uses Thunder Punch for STAB, Liquidation to counter Ground types, Drain Punch, and Coil to boost its stats. Thanks to its Levitate ability, it's immune to Ground-type moves, so don't try that. Stick with Fire, Fighting, or Steel types again.

Toxapex (Level 66, Poison/Water - Tera Type: Poison)

This is Miriam's ace. Toxapex is a bulky Pokémon known for its defensive capabilities and status-inflicting moves. It can be tough to take down, especially with its Poison/Water typing. If it Terastallizes into a Poison type, it becomes even more resistant to Grass and Fairy attacks. Ground and Psychic types are generally good counters, but be prepared for a tough fight.

Recommended Pokémon for Miriam

If you need some specific recommendations, consider these:

• Chi-Yu: A powerful Dark/Fire Legendary.
• Volcarona: A Bug/Fire type that's great against Grass and Bug.
• Great Tusk (Scarlet) or Iron Treads (Violet): Both are strong Ground types, excellent against Electric and Rock.
• Clodsire: A Poison/Ground type, especially if it has the Water Absorb ability.

Just remember to keep your team leveled and bring a good mix of types, and you'll be able to handle Miriam in no time!