WNBA Blockbuster: Dallas Wings Land Defensive Ace Alanna Smith in 3-Year Deal!

Published 2 hours ago3 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
WNBA Blockbuster: Dallas Wings Land Defensive Ace Alanna Smith in 3-Year Deal!

Free agent Alanna Smith, a prominent 6-foot-4 forward, has officially agreed to a lucrative three-year max contract with the Dallas Wings. The agreement was confirmed by her agent, Sammy Wloszczowski of the Sports International Group agency, on Saturday. This significant signing marks a major acquisition for the Wings as they continue to bolster their roster during the free agency period.

Smith established herself as a formidable defensive presence during her tenure with the Minnesota Lynx in 2025. Her exceptional performance that year earned her co-Defensive Player of the Year honors, shared with A'ja Wilson, and secured her a second consecutive spot on the all-defensive team. Last season, Smith showcased her all-around game by averaging 9.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.9 blocks, and 1.3 steals in her second campaign with the Lynx. Her versatility and impact on both ends of the court made her a highly sought-after player.

Dallas Wings general manager Curt Miller expressed immense satisfaction with the signing, stating that Smith was the team's "top target" in free agency. Miller lauded her as "one of the top two-way players in the WNBA who consistently impacts both sides of the ball." He further highlighted her defensive prowess, noting that she provides "unbelievable versatility" to the coaching staff, capable of executing multiple coverages and significantly affecting shots in the paint. Offensively, Miller is eager to pair Smith with the Wings' "outstanding guards," anticipating that her ability to play both inside and outside will be a key asset.

This acquisition caps a productive free agency period for Dallas. Prior to signing Smith, the Wings successfully re-signed key players Arike Ogunbowale and Awak Kuier, and also added Jessica Shepard to their roster. Additionally, the Dallas Wings hold the coveted No. 1 pick in Monday's collegiate draft, marking their second consecutive top selection after drafting Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers in 2025.

Reflecting on her time in Minnesota, Smith shared her sentiments in an Instagram post, expressing that it was "hard to put into words what my time in Minnesota has meant to me." She conveyed gratitude for the team and city embracing her, appreciative of how she, an "Aussie girl," was welcomed with open arms, adding that Minnesota "Forever will hold a special place in my heart."

Smith's professional journey began when she was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury in 2019. Throughout her seven-year WNBA career, she has also played for the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky before joining Minnesota in 2024. Beyond the WNBA, the Stanford alum has achieved international success, earning a bronze medal with Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she was named to the All-Star Five. This offseason, she also secured an Unrivaled championship with Mist B.C.

Smith's departure from the Lynx is part of a broader offseason overhaul for Minnesota. She is the second Lynx starter to leave, following Bridget Carleton, who was selected by Portland in the expansion draft. The Lynx have also seen several reserves depart, including Jessica Shepard (who later joined Dallas, implying a prior departure from Minnesota), Natisha Hiedeman (signed with Seattle Storm), Karlie Samuelson (free agent, Portland), and Maria Kliundikova (selected by Toronto Tempo in expansion).

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