Dallas Wings sign defensive ace Alanna Smith to 3-year deal

free agent alana smith agreed a three-year maximum contract with dallas wingsHis agent, Sammy Wloszkowski of the Sports International Group agency, told ESPN on Saturday.

Smith, a 6-foot-4 forward, emerged as a defensive standout. minnesota lynx In 2025, when he earned co-Defensive Player of the Year honors Aja Wilson And earned his second All-Defensive team nod.

Smith joins the Wings to begin a productive free agency for Dallas, who re-signed Arike Ogunbowale And speechless queerand added jessica shepard. Wings general manager Curt Miller said that Smith was the team’s “top target” in free agency.

“As the reigning co-Defensive Player of the Year, she is one of the top two-way players in the WNBA who makes a consistent impact on both sides of the ball,” Miller said in a statement. “From a defensive standpoint, Alana provides our coaching staff with incredible versatility – she can play multiple coverages and significantly impact shots around the paint. Offensively – we are excited to add her to our excellent guards, showcasing her ability to play inside or outside.”

Dallas also owns the No. 1 pick in Monday’s collegiate draft, its second consecutive top selection after drafting the Rookie of the Year. Paige Bueckers In 2025.

Smith averaged 9.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.9 blocks and 1.3 steals for the Lynx last season, his second campaign with the franchise.

“It’s hard to put into words what my time in Minnesota has meant to me,” Smith wrote in an Instagram post. “This team and this city embraced me and I’m so grateful for everyone’s love and support and the way this Australian girl was welcomed with open arms. She will always have a special place in my heart.”

The seven-year veteran was drafted phoenix mercury Also played for Smith in 2019 indiana fever And chicago sky Before signing with Minnesota in 2024.

The Stanford alumna won a bronze medal with Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she was named to the All-Star Five. Smith also achieved a championship with Mist BC this offseason.

Smith is the second Lynx starter with him bridget carltonWho was selected by Portland in the expansion draft this offseason to leave the team. Minnesota has also severed ties with Reserve Shepard, Natisha Hideman (seattle hurricane), carly samuelson (Free Agent, Portland) and Maria Klyundikova (selected by toronto tempo in details).