Dallas expects Kuier, who hails from Finland, to be a key contributor on the 2026 Wings team. But more than a week after the Wings began training camp in Arlington, Kuier has yet to arrive in the states. 

Wings general manager Curt Miller told reporters last week that she is still in Finland, awaiting her appointment with the consulate. The Wings, who open the season May 9 on the road against the Indiana Fever, have no exact date for her arrival.

“Obviously [there are] a lot of requirements now through immigration status to get into the United States,” Miller said.

Kuier is one of several international players on the Wings roster who have had to navigate immigration policies ahead of the WNBA season. 

International players often utilize a P-1A visa, which allows recognized athletes to temporarily compete, play or tour in the U.S. The visa process can create logistical challenges and delays, with athletes missing practices and games. As more international players join the WNBA, this will be something for teams to navigate.

“All teams around the league have incredible immigration lawyers that also work with the league office and the NBA offices to really help these players who are playing overseas and the international players,” Miller said. 

The absences of players such as Kuier have been hard on the Wings coaching staff. 

All-Star guard Arike Ogunbowale, free agency pick-up Jessica Shepard and Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu all arrived late due to overseas commitments. Costanza Verona, another Wings training camp signee, arrived in Texas yesterday.

Fernandez said the staff has shared everything that has been implemented with the players who are away. In their absence, the Wings have leaned on the strength of back-to-back No. 1 picks Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, along with veterans Alysha Clark and Odyssey Sims.

The process has perhaps been most taxing on the athletes who have to go through it.

“I’m legal, just putting it out there. I’m allowed to be here,” Smith joked during the Wings’ media day on Monday. “It’s been OK, a lot of travel to go and get the visa and just waiting around. [It’s] a bit inconvenient, but it has to happen. I get it, there’s laws and policies around it.”