Jose Fernandez Has High Expectations For Paige Bueckers, Dallas Wings

The Dallas Wings are hoping to bounce back from the bottom of the standings.

South Florida Bulls head coach Jose Fernandez directs his team against the Marquette Golden Eagles. / Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

The Dallas Wings have been at the bottom of the barrel in the WNBA for the past two seasons.

That led to Paige Bueckers being the number one overall pick in last year's draft, and the team is going to have a chance to add another top-tier talent in this year's draft as well. Wings head coach Jose Fernandez spoke about being able to turn things around for the Wings very quickly, as early as this season.

“If we can put a really good roster together around the current players that we have, there should be no reason why we’re not a playoff contender,” Fernandez said via WFAA reporter Jonah Javad.

“... I wouldn’t have taken this job if I didn’t think I could be a great change to the organization. They’re going to play with great passion. There’s not going to ever be a reason for anyone to think they didn’t play hard. My expectation in taking this job is to win a championship.”

READ MORE: Wings HC Jose Fernandez Explains Jump From College to WNBA

Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers celebrates after the game against the Phoenix Mercury. / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Jose Fernandez Eyes Championship For Wings

The Wings moved to Dallas from Tulsa a decade ago, and the team has not experienced much playoff success during that time. The fact that he aspires to bring a winning culture to the Wings is a welcome sign that hasn't been seen in over 10 years.

Fernandez knows the key to a championship is building the roster around Bueckers, who already has impressed him in their limited interactions.

"Paige is a relentless worker. She wants to be the best," Fernandez said via Javad. “She’s got one of the best mid-range games in the entire world. A three-level scorer — getting to the rim, mid-range game and also shooting the three."

Bearing a lockout, the Wings will be on the clock with the first pick in the WNBA draft this April after the conclusion of the college basketball season.

READ MORE: This Potential Dallas Wings Prospect Could Be WNBA Draft's Biggest Bust

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