The Dallas Wings fell just short of their second win of the season on Friday, losing 88-84 to the Las Vegas Aces. Despite a strong effort led by DiJonai Carrington, the main controversy centered around coach Chris Koclanes’ decision not to challenge a key call in the fourth quarter that contributed to the Aces’ comeback. The Wings held a nine-point lead with just over three minutes to play before a non-challenged offensive foul call against Myisha Hines-Allen helped shift momentum in Las Vegas’ favor.

During a timeout after the foul that put the Aces back in the game, Carrington desperately urged Koclanes to use his challenge to overturn the call, almost yelling in frustration. The coach declined, and the Aces capitalized on the reprieve to build a 15-0 run that ultimately secured their victory. Carrington visibly struggled to hide her disappointment as she returned to the court, a moment that echoed the growing tension within the Wings’ locker room and fanbase.

Growing criticism intensifies over Wings’ disappointing start to the season

Dallas now stands at 1-11, the only team in the WNBA without more than one win this year, and the slow start has sparked widespread criticism. Fans and analysts have directed blame at various areas of the organization, but much of the ire has been aimed squarely at Koclanes. Social media erupted with fans sharing videos of Carrington’s pleas and condemning the decision to ignore them as a key factor in the loss. The coaching staff’s management of late-game situations is questioned alongside the team’s overall performance.

WNBA legend points fingers at leadership for Wings’ ongoing struggles

In the wake of this game and the Wings’ poor record, former WNBA star Sheryl Swoopes voiced her opinion on who bears the most responsibility for the team’s woes. While she acknowledges coach Koclanes’ accountability, she insists that general manager Curt Miller also shares the blame, particularly for the coaching hire.

“I am not going to put all of the blame on Chris,” Swoopes said. “(Wings general manager) Curt Miller, this is your hire… Yes, Chris has got to take a lot of the ownership, but so does Curt. It’s one thing to be friends, but this is about wins and losses.”

Miller’s decision to hire a longtime friend in Koclanes has come under fire as the Wings continue to struggle without signs of improvement. The coaching transition from assistant to head coach has so far proven difficult, and Carrington’s visible frustration is seen as a symptom of deeper issues within the team dynamics and leadership structure.

Rookie promise contrasts with team’s uphill battle

Despite drafting Paige Bueckers with the first overall pick in this year’s draft, the Wings have not converted their potential into wins. Bueckers’ strong performances as a rookie are a rare bright spot amid the team’s troubles. Still, the Wings face an uphill climb to turn their season around. The coach’s reluctance to make decisive calls, like ignoring Carrington’s challenge request, contributes to doubts about the team’s ability to reverse their fortunes this year.

As their season progresses, the Wings must address both their strategic decisions on the court and the growing frustration among players if they hope to end their losing streak and contend within the league.