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.
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.
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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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.
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.
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