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The Dallas Wings welcomed former WNBA champion Camille Smith as their new assistant coach, marking an exciting addition to their coaching staff. Fans celebrated the news, recognizing Smith’s deep ties to the Dallas community and her impressive experience in women’s basketball.

Smith embarked on a significant new chapter in her career when she joined the Wings as an assistant coach. This marked a return to her roots , as she had been a prominent figure in the WNBA before transitioning into coaching. Smith’s impressive background included a notable playing career, during which she won a championship with the Seattle Storm in 2010. Her experience as a player was expected to greatly benefit her new role on the coaching staff.


'Welcome Home': Dallas Wings Make Assistant Coach Hire 1 Jul 22, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale (24) celebrates after making a three point shot against the Los Angeles Sparks during the second half at College Park Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Prior to her appointment with the Wings, Smith had served as the head women’s basketball coach at Paul Quinn College in Dallas since 2022. Her coaching journey began in earnest after her retirement from professional basketball in 2019. She first joined the Wings as a player development coach, where she honed her skills and gained valuable insights into the intricacies of coaching at a high level. This foundation prepared her for the challenges that lay ahead as she transitioned to an assistant coaching role.

Under new head coach Chris Koclanes, Smith and fellow assistant Nola Henry were tasked with building a competitive team culture. Koclanes recognized Smith’s commitment to excellence and her strong work ethic, describing her as someone who embodied the philosophy that “how you do anything is how you do everything.” This mindset was crucial as the Wings aimed to establish a solid defensive identity for the upcoming season.

Dallas Wings Announce Camille Smith as Team’s New Assistant Coach


'Welcome Home': Dallas Wings Make Assistant Coach Hire 2 Sep 26, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale (24) shoots against Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray (12) in the first half during game two of the 2023 WNBA Playoffs at Michelob Ultra Arena. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

The Wings have recently announced Smith as the team’s new assistant coach. The announcement can be seen in a post shared by the franchise’s official Instagram account.

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A post shared by Dallas Wings (@dallaswings)

Smith expressed her excitement about returning to the Dallas area and contributing to a franchise she had supported as a fan for years. Being a season ticket holder since her retirement, she felt a deep connection to the Wings and was eager to use her knowledge and experience to help guide the team. Her enthusiasm reflected a genuine commitment to the growth and success of the organization.


'Welcome Home': Dallas Wings Make Assistant Coach Hire 3 Sep 24, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale (24) passes the ball during the first half of game one of the 2023 WNBA Playoffs at Michelob Ultra Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Smith’s addition to the Wings represented not just a personal milestone but also a strategic move for the franchise. Her extensive experience as a player and coach positioned her as a vital asset to the team. As she begins this new journey, Smith aims to inspire both players and fans alike, fostering a culture of excellence and competitiveness within the team.


'Welcome Home': Dallas Wings Make Assistant Coach Hire 4 Sep 24, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale (24) passes the ball against the Las Vegas Aces during game one of the 2023 WNBA Semifinals against the Dallas Wings at Michelob Ultra Arena. The Aces defeated the Wings 97-83. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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