The WNBA community was taken by surprise on Monday when the Dallas Wings announced they had traded NaLyssa Smith to the Las Vegas Aces in exchange for a 2027 first-round draft pick. The trade was unexpected and particularly difficult for DiJonai Carrington, Smith’s girlfriend and a current player for the Wings, who shared a moving farewell on social media. This trade not only marked a significant change in Smith’s career but also created an emotional separation between the couple.

Emotional Farewells Shared by Carrington and Smith

Following the announcement, Carrington expressed her feelings through a heartfelt post featuring a collection of affectionate photos with Smith, accompanied by emojis that revealed her sadness and love. Smith responded with her own deeply emotional message, emphasizing their close bond despite the sudden change.

“I love you wifeyyyy take care of tha kidsss,” Smith wrote. —NaLyssa Smith

Smith also openly shared her shock and disappointment over the trade, admitting it was unexpected and difficult to process initially.

“Sick to my stomach dawg, never seen this coming but I love you Dallas nation, thank you 4 everything,” Smith said in her first reaction after getting shipped. —NaLyssa Smith

Despite the initial shock, Smith later confirmed on social media that she was optimistic about her move to Las Vegas, revealing that the Aces were her preferred destination.

NaLyssa Smith’s Brief Tenure with the Dallas Wings

NaLyssa Smith joined the Dallas Wings earlier this year as part of a major four-team trade, after spending three seasons with the Indiana Fever. The Fever traded her to reshape their team with a focus on future championship goals. However, Smith’s time in Dallas was short and challenging; she took part in 18 games but struggled to meet expectations.

Her performance saw a decline, averaging a career-low 6.7 points per game on 42.5% shooting, and a shooting percentage of just 18.2% from three-point range, alongside 4.9 rebounds per game. These stats reflected a period of adjustment that ultimately resulted in the Wings deciding to move her on.

Implications of the Trade for Smith and Carrington

The trade signifies a new chapter for NaLyssa Smith as she now joins the Las Vegas Aces, a team she welcomed enthusiastically despite the difficult circumstances. For DiJonai Carrington, it means adapting to life apart from her partner, a situation made more poignant by their public expressions of affection and support.

This trade underscores the often unforeseen personal impact professional moves can have on athletes, especially in a close-knit community like the WNBA. Supporters of both players will be watching closely to see how Smith integrates with the Aces and how the couple navigates their new reality.