The Dallas Wings delivered on the opening night against the Indiana Fever. Both teams improved with the addition of firepower in the offseason and earned a place in the top five teams in the 2026 season. While Stephanie White looked to improve on her 2025 season performance, Jose Fernandez is looking for a strong start to his WNBA career.
At the final whistle, the former University of Florida coach recorded his first win behind a strong outing by his offense-minded team. During the press conference, while the coach hyped up his players, a veteran guard also lauded Fernandez’s approach and impact on the team.
Jose Fernandez Receives High Praise
The Wings showed trust in an experienced coach after a disappointing 2025 season. Famous for taking the best out of young stars, Fernandez also took charge of the team led by rookies. Odyssey Sims, a veteran guard, understood how well the coach is working towards building a strong team.
“He’s cool, he’s very personable. You can tell he loves being around us already. Got his first win in the W. And keep going on and on. He already trusts us. We just want to keep building…we love to have different options for us to score,” Sims said.
Odyssey Sims on Jose Fernandez
— Moreau Sports Media Prod Co. (@MoreauSportsCo) May 9, 2026
He's cool, he’s very personable. You can tell he loves being around us already. Got his first win in the W. And keep going on and on. He already trusts us. We just want to keep building…we love to have different options for us to score." pic.twitter.com/M9TnUrfcXr
During the preseason win, the coach was also happy with the former Fever guard and mentioned that he wanted to give Lindsay Allen more time on the court, which contributed to Sims’ reduced minutes. In the regular season, Sims started and scored 20 points in 26 minutes, with two assists, two rebounds, and two steals.
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Coach also loved his team’s performance and highlighted his star player, Paige Bueckers, for her impact on the game and team.
Jose Fernandez Praises Paige Bueckers For Decision Making
Another player who impressed in the game was Paige Bueckers, who was clinical from the floor, shooting 100% from the midrange and 80% overall. But more important than her efficiency was her ability to take shots in key moments.
In the post-game interview, the coach singled out his playmaker and said, “She’s special…she is. She’s special. She reads how she’s being guarded. Having coached against her, and seeing her now. She’s seeing things two three times ahead of stuff, it’s just remarkable…especially under pressure too.”
Jose Fernandez on Paige Bueckers
— Moreau Sports Media Prod Co. (@MoreauSportsCo) May 9, 2026
She’s special…she is. She’s special. She reads how she’s being guarded. Having coached against her, and seeing her now. She’s seeing things two three times ahead of stuff, it’s just remarkable…especially under pressure too. pic.twitter.com/ShfApQqP8d
Her performance certainly highlights why GMs showed trust in Bueckers as the centerpiece for their franchises, and the player will look to deliver for her Texas franchise at the moment.