DiJonai Carrington has been officially ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Washington Mystics due to a rib injury. Although previously listed as probable, the Dallas Wings guard will now be sidelined, putting a halt to her consistent contributions this season, where she currently averages 11.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.
Additional Absences Impact Wings’ Roster Decisions
The Wings face further challenges as four other players are unavailable for Sunday’s matchup. Maddy Siegrist remains sidelined with an anterolateral tibial plateau fracture and is expected to miss an extended period. Luisa Geiselsoder is also out due to international commitments, while Tyasha Harris has undergone surgery on her left knee and will be out for the rest of the 2025 WNBA season. Meanwhile, Teaira McCowan is off participating in the EuroBasket tournament.
Recent Performances Prior to Injuries
Before being ruled out, Carrington saw limited success in the Wings’ most recent games. She scored five points along with nine rebounds and one assist in Friday’s game, shooting 2-for-9. Earlier in the week against the Golden State Valkyries, her output included eight points, four rebounds, and four assists, despite shooting struggles at 1-for-9.
Coach Koclanes Explains Changes to Starting Lineup
After starting in the first 12 games, Carrington was shifted to a bench role for the last two contests. Wings head coach Chris Koclanes explained the decision to adjust the lineup as part of ongoing efforts to find the most effective combinations. He said,
“Yeah. Decided to make a change to the lineup, as we continue to search for the right combinations, and the right start.”
“Just conversations throughout with DiJonai, with our team. And just felt it was the right time to make a change and give Aziaha [James] a look.”
Aziaha James started the last game against the Connecticut Sun, leading the team with a strong performance of 17 points, five rebounds, and five assists on efficient 5-for-7 shooting. This change has helped the Wings build momentum, with back-to-back wins over the Connecticut Sun and Golden State Valkyries.
Projected Starting Lineup for Sunday’s Matchup
Looking ahead to Sunday’s critical game against the Washington Mystics, the Wings are expected to start Arike Ogunbowale, Aziaha James, Paige Bueckers, NaLyssa Smith, and Myisha Hines-Allen. This lineup reflects the team‘s current strategy in response to Carrington’s absence and other key player unavailability as they aim to maintain their recent winning streak.