After firing head coach Chris Koclanes after one season, the Dallas Wings are hiring the team’s next leader.

DALLAS — The Dallas Wings will soon have a new head coach, according to a report by ESPN.

ESPN reported that the Dallas Wings are expected to hire Jose Fernandez as the franchise’s next head coach. Fernandez comes to Dallas after 25 years as head coach of the University of South Florida women’s basketball program. He has led the Bulls to a 485-317 (.605) record, 10 NCAA tournament appearances, nine WNIT appearances and two AAC championship titles.

USF confirmed Fernandez’s departure for a WNBA opportunity on social media.

pic.twitter.com/822VUGvGmP

— USF Athletics (@USFAthletics) October 23, 2025

Fernandez’s signing comes in the wake of the Wings’ firing former head coach Chris Koclanes after a single season with the team. Under Koclanes, Dallas posted a 10-34 record — the franchise’s worst since moving to Dallas.

Unlike Koclanes, Fernandez comes to the job with a quarter-century of head coaching experience. However, Fernandez has never coached at the professional level. He will have to learn quickly. 

The Wings have an expectation of success for a roster that includes rookie of the year Paige Bueckers. Dallas also has the best odds for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft and is guaranteed at least a top-two pick.

Fernandez has not officially signed with the Wings, ESPN reports, but he is expected to ink a deal as soon as Friday.