Dallas Wings Name Chris Koclanes Head Coach

The Dallas Wings have hired Chris Koclanes as their new head coach, the team announced, marking a fresh chapter for the franchise. Koclanes, a defensive specialist with over a decade of coaching experience in the WNBA and NCAA, steps into the role after a successful tenure as an assistant coach at the University of Southern California.

Koclanes brings a wealth of expertise from both professional and collegiate basketball. At USC, he helped guide the Trojans to their first Elite Eight appearance in 30 years during the 2023-24 season. USC posted a 29-6 record that year, their best since 1985-86, and featured National Freshman of the Year JuJu Watkins. Koclanes also served as the team’s video coordinator starting in 2015 and was instrumental in the program’s recent resurgence.

Before returning to college basketball, Koclanes spent eight seasons in the WNBA, including time as defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Sparks in 2023. Under his leadership, the Sparks ranked third in defensive scoring and led the league in steals and opponent turnovers. From 2016-22, Koclanes worked with the Connecticut Sun, helping the team to two WNBA Finals appearances and a consistent presence among the league’s top defensive squads.

The Wings’ leadership has undergone significant changes this offseason. In November, Curt Miller was named Executive Vice President and General Manager, and Jasmine Thomas and Travis Charles were promoted to key front-office roles. The franchise is looking to turn the page after parting ways with head coach Latricia Trammell in October following a disappointing 9-31 season.

“I’m excited to support and empower the women of this league as we continue to elevate the WNBA to new heights,” Koclanes said.

The Wings hold the No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft and are poised for a rebuild under Koclanes’ leadership.