The Dallas Wings are set to make a major change on the sidelines. After another season of transition, the franchise has finalized an agreement to hire longtime South Florida coach Jose Fernandez as its next head coach, a person familiar with the situation confirmed to DallasHoopsJournal.com.
Fernandez, who led the Bulls for more than two decades, has not yet signed a contract but is expected to do so as early as Friday, the person said. The 53-year-old brings a decorated résumé that includes 10 NCAA Tournament appearances — eight in the past 11 years — and a reputation for sustained success and international recruiting reach.
If completed, Fernandez would become the Wings’ fifth head coach in seven seasons. The organization is seeking stability following a 10–34 campaign and the firing of Chris Koclanes after one year.
Dallas is also positioned to shape its future with the best odds of landing the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft Lottery.
USF confirmed in a social media statement that Fernandez informed the school of his decision to leave the program to pursue the WNBA opportunity. He compiled a 485–317 record at South Florida and built one of the most consistent mid-major programs in women’s basketball.
“Over the past 25 years, Jose has been an exceptional leader, mentor and advocate for the University of South Florida,” USF athletics CEO Rob Higgins said in a statement. “His impact on USF Athletics and our university community is profound, and his legacy will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.”
Michele Woods-Baxter was named interim head coach ahead of the Bulls’ 2025–26 season, which begins Nov. 3. Around the WNBA, two other vacancies have recently been filled, with the Portland Fire hiring Alex Sarama and the expansion Toronto Tempo finalizing a deal with Sandy Brondello.
SB Nation first reported Dallas’ plans to hire Fernandez.
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