The Dallas Wings are on a roll, and it's not just any old roll. They've gone from a 9-34 record in the previous season to a 7-3 start in 2026, leading the WNBA in offensive rating and assist rate. This transformation is a testament to the bold offseason decisions made by the front office, who spent big in free agency and drafted the number one overall pick. But what's truly fascinating is the impact of these changes on the team's culture and performance.
One of the key factors in the Wings' success is the coaching staff, led by first-year pro Jose Fernandez. Fernandez has established new standards of accountability, professionalism, and intentionality on the court, creating a noticeably different culture around the organization. This has played perfectly to the roster's strengths, leveraging the excellent off-ball movement and decision-making skills of its guards into a special read-and-react machine.
The biggest beneficiary of this system has been forward Jessica Shepard, who is loving life in the Fernandez offense. Shepard acts as an offensive hub, constantly creating out of handoffs, ball screens, and post-ups. Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd are two of the best off-ball movers in the league, and Shepard is feasting by finding them on cuts and off-ball screening. This has led to historic offensive success, with the Wings leading the league in fast-break points and having the best AST/TO ratio in WNBA history.
However, the Wings' success is not without its challenges. Alanna Smith, a big free agent addition, has been virtually unplayable, and Arike Ogunbowale has had an up-and-down start to the season. The team also lacks a true wing, which forces everyone slightly out of position and makes Bueckers and Fudd have to defend players they shouldn't be guarding full-time. Despite these challenges, the Wings are on a roll, and it's exciting to see what the future holds for this team.
In my opinion, the Wings' success is a testament to the power of a strong coaching staff and a well-executed system. Fernandez has created a culture of accountability and professionalism that has transformed the team's performance. The Wings' ability to take care of the ball, find the open player, take great shots, and run like hell off misses and turnovers is a formula for success. And while there are challenges ahead, the Wings are on a roll, and it's exciting to see what the future holds for this team.
