The fate of the 2026 WNBA season is still hanging in the balance, with the CBA negotiations unable to reach an end. Yet many franchises took positive steps toward preparations for the season, with Toronto Tempo and Seattle Storm appointing their new coaches for the season. The Dallas Wings also now shared an update on similar lines, appointing Jose Ferenadez as its head coach.
The University of South Florida Women’s basketball team’s coach has been the most successful leader for the program and will now take control of the Texas franchise starting with the 2026 season. As for the USF, Michele Woods-Baxter stepped up as interim head coach after Jose Fernandez’s WNBA move. The Wings confirmed the appointment on October 27.
Dallas Wings Appoints Jose Fernandez As New Head Coach
After poor performance in the 2025 season, the Wings parted ways with Chris Koclenes at the end of their campaign. While there were many high-profile names in discussion for the vacant position, the Wings appointed experienced and successful coach Jose Fernandez as its Head Coach for the upcoming seasons.
The Miami-born coach spent the past 25 seasons leading the women’s team at the University of South Florida, and the Wings will be his first WNBA franchise. The franchise declared the appointment on social media, welcoming the 53-year-old coach to the organization. They will formally introduce the coach on November 6 as per the statement from the franchise.
“Jose is one of the most respected veteran coaches in women’s basketball,” Wings general manager Curt Miller said in a statement following the appointment. “He is a proven winner and has built sustained success for over two decades at USF. Jose consistently produces professional players and is regarded as an excellent developer of talent. … He is known for putting his players in position to succeed.”
Welcome, Jose Fernandez!
— Dallas Wings (@DallasWings) October 27, 2025
The Dallas Wings have named Fernandez as the team’s next head coach. pic.twitter.com/dExVwi7Zmu
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According to reports, the Texas franchise also interviewed Fernandez in 2025, prior to the appointment of Chris Koclanes. Fernandez becomes the fifth coach in seven seasons for the Wings and faces some tough challenges ahead.
Key Obstacles For Jose Fernandez At Dallas Wings
Despite having generational talent Paige Bueckers on the roster, the Dallas Wings finished 13th last season. In ESPN’s early power rankings, the side also fares at the 12th position, just above the Chicago Sky, which highlights the team’s inconsistency and inexperience.
While the newly appointed boss will be dealing with both these issues, there is pressure to attract proven talent in the off-season who would look to sign for a championship contender side.
One key factor where Fernadez can score is effectively using the 2026 WNBA draft. The rich pool of young talent will give the Wings HC a chance to pair Bueckers with another superstar potential player, creating a strong young core that would tempt a few veterans and all-stars to join the team. It will be interesting to watch how Fernandez will shape the future of Wings from the current position.