Jose fernandez Named Head coach of Dallas Wings, Ushering in New Era for WNBA Franchise
Arlington, Texas – October 27, 2025 – Dallas Wings have appointed Jose Fernandez as their new head coach, marking a important shift for a team poised for growth. Fernandez arrives after a distinguished 25-year tenure leading women’s basketball at University of South Florida, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success.
A formal introduction is scheduled for November 6, where fans will get a first look at vision for future of Wings. This appointment follows a challenging season for dallas, and signals a commitment to building a consistently competitive program.
A Proven Leader Takes Flight
Fernandez inherits a team anchored by star talent, including reigning WNBA Rookie of Year, Paige Bueckers. He replaces chris Koclanes, whose single season with Dallas ended with a 10-34 record.
General Manager Curt Miller expressed strong confidence in Fernandez’s abilities, stating he is “one of most respected veteran coaches in women’s basketball.” Miller highlighted Fernandez’s consistent success, talent development skills, and ability to position players for optimal performance.
Here’s what makes Fernandez a standout choice:
* Sustained Success: Over two decades at USF, he built a program known for its consistency.
* Player Development: Fernandez consistently produces players ready for professional careers.
* Global Viewpoint: His prosperous recruitment of international players aligns with WNBA’s increasingly global landscape.
* Championship Mindset: Fernandez is committed to establishing “elite standards” and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Building on a Foundation
throughout his career, Fernandez has guided Bulls to 10 NCAA tournament appearances. More than 100 of his former players have gone on to play professionally around world.
Notably, he’s mentored nine players who have been drafted or signed by WNBA teams, including current stars like Courtney Williams of Minnesota Lynx and Kitja Laksa of Phoenix Mercury. You’ll recognize his impact on current WNBA rosters.
Fernandez was previously considered for position last year, demonstrating Wings’ sustained interest in his leadership. He becomes fifth coach in seven seasons for franchise, which is 19-45 as a 2023 playoff series win – first for team since relocating to Dallas-Fort Worth area from Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2016.
A New Direction for Dallas
Miller, hired as Wings GM last year, previously brought in Koclanes, with whom he worked at Connecticut Sun from 2016-2022. Together, they led Sun to WNBA Finals in both 2019 and 2022.
Now, with Fernandez at helm, Wings are signaling a clear intention to build a program capable of sustained success. This change represents a pivotal moment for franchise, and fans will be eager to see how Fernandez’s vision unfolds on court.
This appointment underscores commitment to building a winning culture and solidifies Dallas Wings’ position as a team to watch in WNBA.