"WNBA twitter isn't going to like this" - Fans react to Dallas Wings hiring former USC assistant as Head Coach

Dallas Wings will have a new coach as they try to recover from an underwhelming WNBA season in 2024. In a report by ESPN’s Alexa Philippou, the Wings have reportedly hired Chris Koclanes to be their coach for next season.

Koclanes was a former assistant coach of the Connecticut Sun from 2016 to 2022 before transitioning to the same role with USC in collegiate women’s basketball.

Following a 9-31 season, the Wings will have the luxury of choosing the top overall pick in next year’s WNBA draft, which is currently headlined by collegiate sensation Paige Bueckers. The team fired Latricia Trammel after the Wings missed the playoffs for the first time in four years.

Fans have since reacted about the Wings’ new hiring, pointing out numerous potential issues that could come with hiring Koclanes.

“WNBA twitter isn’t going to like this,” one fan said.

“I find it very disturbing how women are clearly being ignored for coaching positions in the W. For those who worship Curt Miller, remember, he's never led a team to a title,” another fan said.

“And who the hell is this geek? 💀,” a fan uttered.

Other WNBA fans, meanwhile, praised the Wings’ hiring, emphasizing that he is a capable coach with an extensive resume from both the collegiate and professional ranks.

“Big news for the Dallas Wings! Chris Koclanes, known for his defensive focus and player development skills, is stepping in as head coach. Sounds like a solid move, given his experience,” a fan said.

“Chris is a great person and coach. Been around him a few times in ct. this is a good hire trust me yall!,” another fan said.

“solid hire,” another fan declared.

Wings general manager Curt Miller announced the hiring. Koclanes has also worked under Miller when he was the head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks.

Wings GM once threw praises on Chris Koclanes

Chris Koclanes and Curt Miller have a long history, way back when they were both on the same WNBA coaching staff. Miller has since praised Koclanes for his work, especially on the defensive side of the game.

“Chris is an elite coach and teacher of the game…He is widely respected around the league as one of the best and brightest in the WNBA. He is a huge addition to our staff and I am excited for our players to experience his passion and servant leadership,” Miller, then LA Sparks head coach, said in 2023.

Koclanes started his coaching career as a video coordinator with the Connecticut. He also served as the team’s defensive coordinator, anchoring the Sun to two league-best seasons in the league.