Full Breakdown
Dallas Wings Announce New Coaching Staff for 2026 Season
3/28/2026, 4:05:58 PM
Comprehensive Coaching Staff Overview
The Dallas Wings have officially announced their coaching staff for the 2026 WNBA season, led by head coach Jose Fernandez. This newly assembled team features a blend of experience from the WNBA, NBA, and collegiate levels, aimed at enhancing the Wings' competitive edge. The staff includes assistant coaches Camille Smith, David Adkins, Mike Neighbors, and Empress Davenport, along with LaMont Russell as the director of player development, Justin Keller as assistant player development coach and strategist, and Anthony Brammer as video coordinator.
Key Coaching Appointments
Camille Smith
Camille Smith returns to the Wings after serving as an assistant coach in the 2025 season. A 13-year WNBA veteran, Smith has a notable playing history, including a championship win with the Seattle Storm in 2010. She has also worked as a player development coach for Dallas and played collegiately at the University of North Carolina.
David Adkins
David Adkins joins the Wings after a successful tenure as associate coach at the University of Washington, where he contributed to the Huskies achieving their first 20-win season since 2016-17. His previous experience includes roles in the NBA and G League, notably as director of player development for the Denver Nuggets.
Mike Neighbors
Mike Neighbors comes to Dallas following his first season as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Sparks. He has a rich coaching background, including a head coaching stint at the University of Arkansas, where he led the Razorbacks to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.
Empress Davenport
Empress Davenport, a Duncanville native, joins the Wings after serving as an associate coach at Ole Miss. Her coaching career includes significant achievements, such as helping the Rebels reach the NCAA Tournament and a Sweet 16 finish in 2025. Davenport also has a strong playing background, having played at the University of Texas.
LaMont Russell
LaMont Russell arrives from the University of Louisville, where he spent a decade on the coaching staff, contributing to two Final Four appearances and five ACC championships. He also served as video coordinator for USA Basketball’s junior national team, aiding in their gold-medal successes.
Justin Keller and Anthony Brammer
Justin Keller, who has been part of Fernandez’s program since 2018, will assist in player development and strategy. Anthony Brammer joins from Pittsburgh, where he served as an assistant coach and general manager, and has previously worked alongside Fernandez at the University of South Florida.
Official Statements & Responses
Jose Fernandez emphasized the importance of assembling a capable coaching staff, stating that it is “every bit as important” as building the player roster. He expressed confidence in the diverse experiences and skills that the new staff brings to the team.
Why It Matters
The Dallas Wings are positioning themselves for a competitive 2026 season with this new coaching staff. The blend of experience across various levels of basketball is expected to enhance player development and team performance, contributing to the Wings' aspirations in the WNBA.
Upcoming Season
The Wings are set to open their 2026 season on the road against the Indiana Fever, with their first home game scheduled for May 12 against the Atlanta Dream at College Park Center in Arlington.
