The Dallas Wings secured the No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, marking a transformative moment for the franchise under newly appointed general manager Curt Miller.
Miller, who arrived from the Los Angeles Sparks, celebrated the lottery win despite travel setbacks. “What an exciting day for the Dallas Wings,” Miller said after watching the results at an assistant coach’s office. The Sparks secured the second pick, followed by the Chicago Sky and Washington Mystics.
The coveted selection strengthens Dallas’ position in their search for a new head coach after parting ways with Latricia Trammell following two seasons. The Wings join three other teams – the Sparks, Mystics and Connecticut Sun – in seeking new leadership, while the Indiana Fever, Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream have already filled their vacancies.
“I can’t begin to tell you the interest coming from, not only WNBA, but outside of WNBA, like you’ve never seen before,” Miller said, noting unprecedented attention from coaching candidates. The lottery win adds appeal to a position that promises the opportunity to develop top young talent.
Miller emphasized team culture as a crucial factor in the draft process. “Championships are won in the locker room and with culture,” he said. The potential selection of standout player Paige Bueckers could create an explosive backcourt with Arike Ogunbowale, the franchise’s all-time leading scorer who celebrated the lottery results on social media.
The Wings aim to rebuild after a disappointing 9-31 season plagued by injuries. A key priority remains re-signing forward Satou Sabally, one of the league’s most coveted free agents. Miller stressed the importance of recruiting players who prioritize team success over individual achievements.
“You’re going to hear it over and over again — culture players, players that play unselfishly, players that think about it being bigger than themselves,” Miller said, outlining his vision for the 2025 roster.
The historic lottery win energizes a fanbase anticipating the franchise’s first No. 1 overall selection. With significant roster decisions ahead, including the potential addition of Bueckers, Miller holds the opportunity to reshape the Wings’ future around their prized draft position.
The team’s transformation extends beyond player personnel, as Miller confirmed he would not serve as head coach. This decision allows the incoming coach to influence the draft selection and establish their vision for the franchise’s next chapter.
As Dallas prepares for this pivotal offseason, the combination of the top pick, coaching search and free agency decisions positions the Wings for a comprehensive rebuild aimed at long-term success in the increasingly competitive WNBA.
