WNBA Team Makes Major Coaching Decision on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Spencer Ostrow | Last updated Dec 23, 2024 12:16 PM ET

The WNBA offseason is in full swing. Teams are gearing up for the 2025 season with changes to their rosters, front offices and coaching staffs.

On Monday, the Dallas Wings announced the hiring of Chris Koclanes as their new head coach.

This decision comes a little over two months after the Wings parted ways with former head coach Latricia Trammell. Koclanes brings plenty of experience to the table. He was in his second season as an assistant coach with the USC Trojans at the college level. Before that, he worked under Curt Miller with the Connecticut Sun and Los Angeles Sparks.

Koclanes and Miller will now reunite after Miller was recently named the Wings’ executive vice president of basketball operations and general manager.

Chris Koclanes has been named the Head Coach of the Dallas Wings.

https://t.co/yIFrO4pU3J pic.twitter.com/lWoU2NL8Ay
— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) December 23, 2024

Koclanes is known to be a defensive-minded coach. During his time with the Sun, he served as the team’s defensive coordinator, playing a key role in helping them lead the WNBA in both scoring defense and defensive field-goal percentage in 2021.

His track record extends to individual player development. He’s coached seven players who have earned spots on the WNBA All-Defensive Team, totaling 12 total inclusions.

Koclanes released a statement, sharing his gratitude for the opportunity to become the Wings next head coach:

"I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Dallas Wings," said Koclanes . "I would like to thank Chairman Bill Cameron, CEO and Managing Partner Greg Bibb and General Manager Curt Miller for entrusting me with this incredible responsibility. I look forward to partnering with our ownership, front office and players to create a sustainable championship culture that is felt on and off the floor, and in the community. I’m excited to support and empower the women of this league as we continue to elevate the WNBA to new heights."

Koclanes will be introduced to the media on Jan. 9 at Reunion Tower in Dallas.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: