Defensive-minded leader brings over a decade of coaching experience in the WNBA and Division I women’s basketball
Arlington, TX (Dec. 23, 2024) – The Dallas Wings have announced Chris Koclanes as the franchise’s new head coach. Known for his defensive expertise and success in player development, Koclanes brings over ten years of experience as an assistant coach in the WNBA and NCAA Division I women’s basketball. A formal press conference to introduce Koclanes will take place on Jan. 9 at Reunion Tower in Dallas, with additional details forthcoming.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chris Koclanes as the new head coach of the Dallas Wings,” said Curt Miller, Executive Vice President and General Manager. “Through an extensive search, Chris consistently stood out as the ideal candidate who aligns with our key pillars. He is a servant leader, prioritizing connection, collaboration, and clear communication. Chris is an exceptional teacher with a high basketball IQ, a tireless work ethic, and a focus on innovative player development.
“Beyond his on-court expertise, Chris shares our commitment to positively impacting the community and fostering player growth off the court. With exciting developments ahead for the franchise, including a new arena, state-of-the-art practice facility, and the No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft, we are confident Chris is the right person to lead us into this new era of Dallas Wings basketball.”
Koclanes is currently in his second season as an assistant coach at the University of Southern California. The seventh-ranked Trojans hold an 11-1 record this season and have been ranked as high as No. 3 nationally. During his first season with USC (2023-24), the Trojans reached the Elite Eight for the first time in 30 years, finishing 29-6—their most wins since 1985-86. That season also saw USC produce the nation’s No. 2 scorer, JuJu Watkins, and earn a No. 5 final ranking.
Three Trojans earned All-Pac-12 honors in 2023-24, while Watkins was named National Freshman of the Year. Koclanes initially joined USC as a video coordinator in 2015 and contributed to the team’s combined 40-7 record over two seasons as an assistant coach.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Dallas Wings,” said Koclanes. “I want to thank Chairman Bill Cameron, CEO and Managing Partner Greg Bibb, and General Manager Curt Miller for entrusting me with this responsibility. I’m eager to partner with the ownership, front office, and players to create a sustainable championship culture that thrives both on and off the court. Together, we can continue to elevate the WNBA and empower the women of this league to reach new heights.”
Koclanes’ WNBA experience includes eight seasons, often working alongside Curt Miller. In 2023, he served as defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Sparks, helping the team achieve the WNBA’s third-best defensive scoring average while leading the league in steals and opponent turnovers.
From 2016 to 2022, Koclanes played a pivotal role with the Connecticut Sun, beginning as video coordinator and advancing to assistant coach in 2019. As the Sun’s defensive coordinator, he helped the team reach the WNBA Finals in 2019 and 2022, as well as the Semifinals in 2020 and 2021. During his tenure, the Sun consistently ranked in the league’s top three in key defensive categories, including opponent scoring average, turnovers forced, and field goal percentage allowed.
In 2021, the Sun led the league in defensive scoring and field goal percentage while ranking second in defensive three-point percentage. Between 2019-2023, seven players under Koclanes earned 12 WNBA All-Defensive Team honors, including multi-time honoree Jasmine Thomas, who now serves as Dallas Wings Vice President and Assistant General Manager.
Koclanes began his coaching career in operations at William & Mary in 2012 before becoming a video coordinator at Saint Joseph’s in 2013, where he earned a master’s degree in organization development and leadership. A graduate of Old Dominion University (2010) with a degree in finance, Koclanes was a scout team player and manager, contributing to ODU’s 36-27 record and WNIT Second Round appearance during his tenure.
Before transitioning to coaching, Koclanes worked as a financial advisor in New York City and volunteered at the New Rochelle Boys and Girls Club. He also coached the Hooperstown Huskies AAU team. A native of Pelham, N.Y., Koclanes brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Dallas Wings as they embark on an exciting new chapter.
