Here’s a bold statement: the future of the Dallas Wings hinges on more than just rebuilding a team—it’s about nurturing a superstar while scouting the next big thing. And this is the part most people miss: new head coach José Fernández is not just strategizing for the 2026 WNBA season; he’s also decoding the blueprint to maximize Paige Bueckers’ potential, all while keeping an eye on rising talents like Azzi Fudd. But here’s where it gets controversial: can Fernández strike the right balance between developing current stars and preparing for future prospects? Let’s dive in.
Fernández has his hands full this offseason, to say the least. Beyond steering the Dallas Wings toward a winning trajectory, he’s tasked with guiding Bueckers’ on-court evolution—a challenge that could define his tenure. To prepare, he’s been pulling double duty: bonding with his current roster and scouting the next wave of talent. During a recent interview on the No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show podcast, Fernández shared a fascinating insight: a scouting trip to UConn to evaluate Azzi Fudd, a highly touted draft prospect, unexpectedly became a masterclass in coaching Bueckers.
“I spent three days at UConn, watching their practices, their game against Ohio State, and soaking in wisdom from Geno Auriemma,” Fernández explained. “We discussed everything from Paige’s role in pick-and-rolls to her off-ball movement. It was eye-opening to hear Geno’s perspective—he genuinely cares about her growth, and that gave me a fresh lens to approach her development.”
But here’s the kicker: Fernández isn’t just relying on external insights; he’s already staking his claim on transforming the Wings’ culture. During his November press conference, he boldly declared, ‘This won’t be the same old Dallas Wings. Change is coming, and we’re gonna win.’ Coming off a 10-34 season that left them at the bottom of the WNBA standings, those are fighting words.
Fernández’s track record at USF adds weight to his ambition. Taking the reins in 2000, just seven months after joining as an assistant, he led the team to 10 NCAA Tournaments and 12 seasons with 20 or more wins. His teams consistently ranked in the top 25 for 79 weeks over nine years—a testament to his ability to build and sustain success.
Now, the controversial question: Can Fernández replicate that success in the WNBA, especially with the added pressure of developing Bueckers while keeping an eye on prospects like Fudd? Some argue that juggling these priorities could dilute his focus, while others believe his experience positions him perfectly for the challenge. What do you think? Is Fernández the right coach to lead the Wings to glory, or is he biting off more than he can chew? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
