The Dallas Wings, who had a challenging season in 2024 with a 9-31 record, are now under the guidance of new leadership. Curt Miller has taken the reins as the general manager, and Chris Koclanes is the team’s new head coach. This change in leadership brings a fresh perspective and renewed hope for the Wings’ future.
WNBA Draft
Paige Bueckers (G, UConn) – 1st Overall Pick
Bueckers led UConn to its first national championship in nine years. In her final collegiate season, she averaged 19.9 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. Bueckers is known for her scoring efficiency and playmaking abilities. She is expected to make an immediate impact alongside All-Star Arike Ogunbowale.
Aziaha James (G, NC State) – 12th Overall Pick
James, a dynamic scorer and playmaker, averaged 17.9 points per game in her final season at NC State. Her offensive ability adds depth to the Wings’ backcourt.
Madison Scott (F, Ole Miss) – 14th Overall Pick
Scott’s talent was recognized when she was named to the 2025 All-SEC Second Team and received a 2025 WBCA All-America Honorable Mention. Her exceptional performance also earned her the 2025 Gillom Trophy, solidifying her position as a valuable addition to the Wings.
JJ Quinerly (G, West Virginia) – 27th Overall Pick
Quinerly brings athleticism and defensive tenacity to the Wings’ roster. In her preseason debut, she led the team with 16 points, showcasing her ability to score
Aaronette Vonleh (C, Baylor) – 31st Overall Pick
Vonleh adds size and interior presence to the Wings’ frontcourt. Her collegiate experience at Baylor positions her as a promising development prospect.
New Additions
NaLyssa Smith, F
Smith is a versatile forward who can rebound. Smith averaged 10.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game in 2024
DiJonai Carrington, G/F
Carrington won the Most Improved Player Award last season and is outstanding on the defensive end of the court. She also averaged 12.7 points last year.
Tyasha Harris, G
Harris is back in Dallas after two years with the Connecticut Sun. Harris adds backcourt depth.
Myisha Hines-Allen, F
Hines-Allen signed with Dallas as a free agent, bringing scoring ability and veteran leadership to the roster.
Potential Starting Five
C: Tearia McCowan
PF: NaLyssa Smith
SF: DiJonai Carrington
SG: Arike Ogunowale
PG: Paige Bueckers
Ogunbowale is a four-time All-Star and was the Wings’ leading scorer last year, averaging 22.2 points per game. She will once again lead the Wings offense. McCowan will control the paint. She averaged 11.7 and 8.1 rebounds last season. The Wings have a solid potential starting lineup, along with Bueckers, Carrington, and Smith.
The Wings will have some solid players off the bench. Maddy Siegrist averaged 9.4 points per game last season; she can give the Wings some bench scoring. Harris averaged 10.5 points a game last season and will also provide the Wings with scoring punch. Siegrist and Harris, along with the rookies, give the Wings a quality bench; they will need time to develop.
Outlook
Dallas has a nice mix of veterans and young players. The Wings should now have no problems scoring the basketball. If they want to be successful this season, they will have to bring it on the defensive end of the court. The Wings will need time to adapt to the new coaching staff and many new players. If the Wings can come together quickly, they can compete in many games this season.
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