The Dallas Wings have officially appointed Chris Koclanes as the new head coach of the franchise, as announced on Monday.
Koclanes brings over ten years of experience as an assistant coach both in the WNBA and at the Division I level for women’s basketball.
Curt Miller, the executive vice president and general manager, expressed excitement about Koclanes’ appointment.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris Koclanes as the new head coach of the Dallas Wings,” Miller stated.
He emphasized that during their thorough search and interview process, Koclanes consistently distinguished himself by embodying key qualities essential for the team’s vision.
Miller praised Koclanes as a servant leader who prioritizes connection, collaboration, and effective communication with players.
Koclanes previously worked alongside Miller on the Connecticut Sun’s coaching staff between 2016 and 2022, contributing to the team’s success in reaching the WNBA Finals in both 2019 and 2022.
Miller was appointed general manager of the Wings just last month, further solidifying their collaborative relationship.
Under Koclanes’ guidance, the Connecticut Sun’s defense thrived, consistently ranking among the top three teams in the WNBA regarding opponent scoring averages, turnovers, and shooting percentages.
Miller praised Koclanes for his impressive teaching abilities, basketball IQ, and unwavering commitment to player development.
“He is a tireless worker with a foundation built through preparation,” Miller added.
Currently, Koclanes is in his second season as an assistant at USC.
He is set to formally introduce himself at a press conference scheduled for January 9.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Dallas Wings,” Koclanes commented, thanking Chairman Bill Cameron, CEO and Managing Partner Greg Bibb, and General Manager Curt Miller for their trust in him with this significant responsibility.
In a significant turn of events, the Wings have secured the No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft after winning the lottery.
The team made headlines earlier by parting ways with coach Latricia Trammell in October after she recorded a 31-49 record over two seasons, including a modest 2-3 playoff run.
This past season, the Wings struggled with a 9-31 record, marking their first failure to qualify for the WNBA postseason since 2020.
Additionally, on the same day, the Washington Mystics appointed Sydney Johnson as their new head coach, thereby filling the last of the seven coaching positions that were open.
