Paige Bueckers was the silver lining for the Dallas Wings' 10-34 record with her 44-point performance against the Sparks and ROTY honors.

Now, the newly appointed HC Jose Fernandez is also relying on Paige Bueckers for the new season, especially for decisions related to the roster.

As the Dallas Wings have earned the first pick for the 2026 WNBA Draft, Jose Fernandez spoke about his approach to coaching and dynamics building with Bueckers.

On an episode of No Offseason: The Athletic Women's Basketball Show, just a day ago, he said, "I think it's very, very important when the CBA gets done, that'll kick off free agency. The expansion draft and all that other stuff where I'm sure she's going to be involved in a lot of things with myself and the front office with regards to the roster."

As CBA negotiations loom, almost all players are in for free agency. It will be important for the Dallas Wings to retain talent as well as think about the first draft pick.

Analysts have selected different No. 1 picks like UConn’s Azzi Fudd, UCLA’s Lauren Betts, TCU’s Olivia Miles, and international player Awa Fam.

Having played for UConn and against Lauren Betts and Olivia Miles, Paige Bueckers insights would prove to be helpful.

"As we lean into getting everybody here in Dallas for training camp, her and I will be on the same page on what I see on both ends of the floor," Fernandez added.

But who all can Jose Fernandez get on the team to help Paige Bueckers?

Paige Bueckers's Coach Needs to Build a Strong Team For Her

19 years old,  Awa Fam is one of the best picks. The  6’4”  Spanish forward had an efficiency of 12.7 in 2025. ESPN mock drafts has named her as the No.1 overall pick.

Next, the Dallas Wings can pick Olivia Miles, the Notre Dame' 5’10” Point Guard. She is currently averaging 17.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, and 7.8 APG.

Azzi Fudd, the Shooting Guard's proximity with UConn, Paige Bueckers, along with her numbers, has made her an obvious choice. She is shooting 45.2% from 3-point range and averaging 17.8 PPG and 4.5 APG.

Whom do you think should be the first pick for Paige Bueckers' team?

Written by

Fatema Kapasi

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi