As the Dallas Wings reshape their frontcourt following the NaLyssa Smith trade, general manager Curt Miller reinforced that Awak Kuier remains firmly in their long-term plans.
Kuier, who turns 24 next month, was drafted No. 2 overall in the 2021 WNBA Draft, becoming the first Finnish player in league history. Born in Cairo to South Sudanese parents and raised in Finland, her journey from refugee to international sensation has inspired many.
Though Kuier hasn’t played in the league since the 2023 WNBA season, her European development and ceiling remain firmly on Dallas’ radar.
“We do like the youth that we’re adding and have available,” Miller said. “Even the fact that no one talks about Awak Kuier anymore — and such a young, dynamic piece that’s a part of our future also — is just exciting to think about.”
Now starring for Galatasaray Istanbul in Turkey’s elite league, her production has impressed. Before this move, she produced well for Umana Reyer Venezia, averaging 14.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game (54.1% FG, 32.4% 3PT) in 26.7 minutes per game across 31 games. Her blend of size, length, and versatility—combined with the rare ability to dunk and guard multiple positions—continues to grow her profile across Europe.
Kuier last appeared in a Wings uniform during the 2023 WNBA season, playing 37 games and averaging 2.6 points and 2.5 rebounds in limited minutes. In January 2024, she opted to sit out the entire WNBA season to rest and focus on personal and international commitments. She was not on the final Dallas roster in 2025, but Miller’s remarks indicate she hasn’t been forgotten.
“There’s always an eye on the future,” Miller said. “But at the same time, we’re trying to put our team in position to win and win right away.”
Rising through Finland’s national team system, Kuier led the U18B squad to a FIBA European Championship in 2019 and took home MVP honors (averaging 18.8 points and 12.2 rebounds).
While Dallas is currently focused on the present-day post rotation anchored by Teaira McCowan, Luisa Geiselsöder, Li Yueru, and Myisha Hines‑Allen, Kuier’s eventual return would give the Wings even more depth and a different dimension inside.
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