STWF Sports | ARLINGTON, Texas | April 11, 2026 — The Dallas Wings are continuing their aggressive offseason reshaping with the return of former No. 2 overall pick Awak Kuier, the team announced Saturday. After two seasons developing overseas, Kuier rejoins Dallas with a significantly expanded skill set and a growing international résumé that positions her as a potential impact player for the 2026 campaign.

Awak Kuier: A Key Player for the Dallas Wings

Kuier, originally selected in the 2021 WNBA Draft, spent her first three seasons with the Wings before returning to Europe following the 2023 season. At the time, she was viewed as a long-term developmental prospect—an athletic, versatile 6-foot-6 center with flashes of elite defensive potential. Now, she returns to Arlington as a more polished and productive player after excelling in both the Italian and Turkish professional leagues.

For Dallas leadership, bringing Kuier back was a central objective throughout the offseason.

“Recruiting Awak back to Dallas and the WNBA was a huge priority for our staff during this offseason,” said Executive Vice President and General Manager Curt Miller. “Awak’s game has continued to grow since last playing in the WNBA. She impacts the game at both ends of the court. Offensively, she can score at all three levels while defensively, she impacts the game with her length and athleticism. We are truly excited about Awak’s return to Dallas.”

Kuier’s most recent campaign with Galatasaray in Turkey’s KBSL showcased her evolution into a two-way force. Over 24 games, she averaged 12.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 1.0 steal per game while shooting an efficient 59.3 percent from the field and 40.9 percent from beyond the arc. Her ability to stretch the floor, combined with her rim protection, reflects the modern profile of a versatile frontcourt player.

Her impact extended into EuroLeague competition, where she delivered consistent production against top-tier international talent. In 17 games, Kuier averaged 12.8 points and 7.8 rebounds while leading the league in blocks. She also ranked among the top performers in efficiency and field goal percentage, underscoring her effectiveness on both ends of the floor.

The accolades followed. Kuier earned All-Turkish League Third Team honors in 2026 and previously collected multiple distinctions in Italy, including First Team and All-Defensive Team selections in 2025, as well as Finals MVP honors in 2024. She also played a key role in securing an Italian Serie A1 championship, further cementing her reputation as a winning contributor in high-level competition.

Her return to Dallas represents more than a homecoming—it signals a shift in expectations. During her initial WNBA stint, Kuier averaged 2.6 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks in limited minutes off the bench. While her athleticism was evident, consistency and opportunity were still developing. Now, with increased experience and confidence, she is positioned to compete for a more prominent role in the Wings’ rotation.

Kuier’s length and defensive instincts could immediately bolster a Dallas team looking to improve its interior presence. Her shot-blocking ability adds another dimension to a roster that continues to prioritize versatility and pace, while her improved perimeter shooting offers spacing that complements the Wings’ guard-driven offense.

Additionally, Kuier’s return aligns with the organization’s broader roster strategy—blending emerging young talent with players who have gained valuable experience in international play. Her growth overseas mirrors a path taken by several WNBA players who have leveraged global competition to refine their games before returning to the league as more complete contributors.

For the Wings, the timing is significant. With the 2026 season approaching, Dallas continues to build a roster capable of competing in a deep Western Conference. Kuier’s development into a two-way presence gives the team another frontcourt option with upside, flexibility, and proven production against elite competition.

As training camp nears, all eyes will be on how Kuier translates her international success back to the WNBA stage. If her recent form is any indication, the Wings may be welcoming back a player ready to take a substantial leap in her professional career—and help elevate Dallas in the process.