Dallas Wings Secure Back‑to‑Back Draft Lottery Wins as WNBA Shifts Gear Toward New Leadership and Pay Talks

The Dallas Wings clinched the WNBA draft lottery for the second consecutive season, earning the league’s top pick for 2025. The victory, announced on Sunday night, marks a historic moment for the franchise and sets the stage for a new era of talent in the league.

Dallas Wings Draft Lottery Triumph

The Dallas Wings’ win in the 2025 draft lottery is the first time any franchise has secured the No. 1 pick in consecutive years. The announcement came after a series of draws that saw the Wings emerge as the top contender for the coveted selection. This achievement places the Wings in a powerful position as they prepare to add a new cornerstone to their roster.

Chris DeMarco Joins New York Liberty as Head Coach

Longtime Warriors assistant Chris DeMarco has reportedly left Golden State to take the helm of the New York Liberty. DeMarco’s move signals a significant coaching shift for the Liberty, who are looking to revitalize their strategy and performance in the upcoming season.

Paige Bueckers Again No. 1 Pick

Paige Bueckers, a standout college player, was selected No. 1 in Unrivaled’s draft on Wednesday. This marks the second time Bueckers has secured the top pick in the same year, underscoring her elite status and the high expectations surrounding her professional career.

Collective Bargaining Agreement Extension and Pay Discussions

The WNBA and the WNBAPA have agreed to extend the current collective bargaining agreement through Nov. 30, an AP source confirmed. This extension provides a temporary reprieve as negotiations continue. In addition, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has confirmed that WNBA players will receive a “big increase” in pay talks, reflecting ongoing efforts to address revenue sharing and player compensation.

Hall of Fame Inductees and Coaching Milestones

Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne were announced as the 2026 Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame class, honoring two of the most influential stars in the league’s history. Meanwhile, Sandy Brondello has been named the first coach of the Toronto Tempo, a move confirmed by an AP source on Wednesday.

A’ja Wilson’s Dominant Season and the Aces’ Finals Run

A’ja Wilson’s performance this season has been historic for the Las Vegas Aces. Wilson earned MVP honors, a scoring title, and Finals MVP recognition, cementing her legacy as one of the league’s most impactful players. In Game 3 of the WNBA Finals, Wilson delivered a game‑winning play that gave the Aces a 3‑0 lead over the Phoenix Mercury, following a 90‑88 victory. The Aces’ second game win, a 91‑78 triumph over the Mercury, was propelled by Jackie Young, who set a Finals record with her performance.

Player Voices and Leadership Challenges

Caitlin Clark has responded to Napheesa Collier’s criticism of WNBA officials, stating that Collier made valid points and that commissioner Cathy Engelbert has not contacted her. Collier, a Minnesota Lynx player and vice‑president of the WNBPA, has been vocal about the league’s leadership, highlighting tensions that may influence future negotiations.

Finals Schedule and Viewing Information

The 2025 WNBA Finals will feature a best‑of‑seven format between the Aces and the Mercury. Fans can follow the schedule to watch each matchup, with the series beginning with the Aces’ dominant Game 3 performance.

Key Takeaways

• The Dallas Wings secured the No. 1 draft pick for the second straight year, positioning them for a strong roster build.
• Chris DeMarco has joined the New York Liberty as head coach, signaling a new direction for the franchise.
• A’ja Wilson’s stellar season and the Aces’ early Finals lead underscore the competitive intensity of the league.

The convergence of draft success, coaching changes, player pay discussions, and championship excitement paints a dynamic picture of the WNBA’s evolving landscape.