archiveCostanza Verona

DHJ Quick Take: Minnesota Reunion Defensive Restoration: Alanna Smith, the reigning 2025 WNBA Co-Defensive Player of the Year, anchors a new-look Wings defense after leading Minnesota to the top-rated defense in the league last season. The Reeve Effect: Jessica Shepard brings five years of experience under Cheryl Reeve, focusing on...

DHJ Quick Take: Expanding the Roster Through New CBA Rules The New Roster Layer: The addition of Costanza Verona and Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu marks the first time the Wings are utilizing the league's new Developmental Player designation. This setup allows Dallas to keep two high-caliber pros in the building to...

DHJ Quick Take: Rayah Marshall is Cleared to Play The Marshall Addition: After being downgraded earlier today, Rayah Marshall's clearance for the 6 p.m. tip-off is a major win for Jose Fernandez. The USC product and former 25th overall pick provides the length and athleticism needed to challenge the Aces'...

DHJ Quick Take: Alanna Smith Injury Update The Defensive Anchor: Having Alanna Smith available enables the Wings to continue to build chemistry, especially as Jessica Shepard enters the mix. Smith is leaned on as a defensive anchor and versatile stretch big to complement a team with perimeter firepower. The Marshall...

DHJ Quick Take: The Jessica Shepard Addition The Arrival: Jessica Shepard arrives in Austin fresh off a Serie A1 championship with Beretta Famila Schio. Her dominance in Europe—ranking first in Euroleague rebounding (9.5) and double-doubles—gives the Wings a frontcourt piece playing at a world-class level. The "Point-Forward" Utility: Both Paige...

DHJ Quick Take: Tactical Impact Arike's Timeline: While Arike Ogunbowale has returned from her championship run in China, a right ankle injury prevents her preseason debut. The Wings are prioritizing her health for the May 9 regular-season opener against Caitlin Clark and the Fever. The Smith Variable: Alanna Smith is...

DHJ Quick Take: Dallas Wings Near Preseason Opener Defensive Tone-Setter: Alanna Smith’s debut is the most significant tactical storyline for Dallas. As the reigning WNBA Co-Defensive Player of the Year, her "one-percenter" mentality is the mechanical necessity required to anchor a shorthanded Wings frontcourt while Jessica Shepard and Awak Kuier...

DHJ Quick Take: The Numbers Game The 12+2 Expansion: Under the new WNBA collective bargaining agreement (CBA), Dallas now has more flexibility with 12 guaranteed spots plus two developmental slots. This "14-player ceiling" is a lifeline for younger prospects, who might have been cut in previous years but now offer...

DHJ Quick Take: Dallas Wings Bring 22 to Camp The Return of Odyssey: Odyssey Sims' return to Arlington provides an immediate veteran presence for the young backcourt. Fresh off an Athletes Unlimited title, her "tempo-changing" ability is the perfect bridge for rookies Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd. Veteran Stability: The...

DHJ Quick Take: The Survival of the Fittest The Logistical Challenge: Curt Miller described the offseason as "relentless," and that energy carries into camp. With at least five players arriving late due to international duties—including Costanza Verona—the early days of camp will require Jose Fernandez to install his new system...