Drafting Dilemmas: Why the Dallas Wings Struggle to Keep First‑Round Talent
The Wings have drafted fifteen first‑round players since 2019, yet only five remain on the 2025 roster. This attrition rate highlights a systemic challenge: identifying prospects who can both thrive in the WNBA and stay in Dallas.
Case Study: Arike Ogunbowale – A Rare Success Story
Picked fifth overall in 2019, Ogunbowale is the lone 2019 first‑rounder still wearing a Wings jersey. Her longevity shows that when the franchise aligns scouting, development, and culture, a top pick can turn into a cornerstone.
When High Picks Miss the Mark
- Satou Sabally (2020) left after the 2024 season.
- Bella Alarie (2020) retired after just 53 games.
- Ty Harris (2020) returned for a second stint after a 2023 trade to the Sun.
These outcomes illustrate the fine line between potential and permanence.
Awak Kuier: The Possible Redemption Arc
Selected second overall in 2021, Kuier posted modest averages of 2.6 points and 2.5 rebounds across 86 games. Her limited production sparked doubts, but she has excelled overseas with Galatasaray Cagdas Factoring Istanbul. Recent coverage notes that GM Curt Miller is eager to bring her back to Dallas. If Kuier returns, the Wings could finally validate a high‑profile pick that once seemed a bust.
Pro Tip: Leverage Overseas Success
Players thriving abroad can return with refined skills and confidence. Monitoring their progress provides a low‑risk pipeline for future roster upgrades.
Learning from Past Missteps
In 2021 the Wings wielded the first, second, and fifth picks, selecting Charli Collier, Awak Kuier, and Chelsea Dungee. Both Collier and Dungee are now out of the league, and Collier was waived in 2023. A year later, Veronica Burton was drafted but waived after two seasons; she has since become a star for the Valkyries.
2023 Draft: A Glimmer of Hope
Maddy Siegrist, the third overall pick, remains a contributor. Lou Lopez Sénéchal logged 27 games before her contract was suspended, while Abby Meyers didn’t survive training camp. The same year, the Wings lost their 2024 first‑round assets—trading Jacy Sheldon to the Sun and leaving Carla Leite unprotected in the expansion draft.
Future Trends: Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
To transform draft volatility into stability, the Wings should focus on three evergreen strategies:
- Holistic Player Development: Pair on‑court coaching with mental‑health resources to nurture young talent beyond raw statistics.
- Retention‑Focused Contracting: Offer multi‑year deals that reward growth while protecting the team’s long‑term interests.
- Strategic Use of International Experience: Scout players excelling overseas and create clear pathways for their return.
FAQ
- Why have so many first‑round picks left the Wings?
- Multiple factors—limited playing time, injuries, and mismatched fit—have led to trades, retirements, and waivers.
- Is Awak Kuier likely to improve if she returns?
- Her strong overseas season suggests she could deliver better numbers and justify her high draft status.
- What can the Wings do to keep top talent?
- Invest in player development, secure longer contracts, and maintain open communication about role expectations.
Take the Next Step
What do you think the Dallas Wings should prioritize in the upcoming draft? Share your thoughts in the comments, explore our in‑depth draft analysis, and subscribe for weekly updates on WNBA talent trends.
