Wings sign defensive ace Smith to 3-year deal

Free agent Alanna Smith agreed to a three-year max contract with the Dallas Wings, her agent, Sammy Wloszczowski of the Sports International Group agency, told ESPN on Saturday.

Smith, a 6-foot-4 forward, emerged as a defensive standout for the Minnesota Lynx in 2025, when she earned co-Defensive Player of the Year honors alongside A’ja Wilson and earned her second all-defensive team nod.

Smith joins the Wings to round out a productive free agency for Dallas, which re-signed Arike Ogunbowale and Awak Kuier, and added Jessica Shepard.

Dallas also owns the No. 1 pick in Monday’s collegiate draft, its second consecutive top selection after drafting Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers in 2025.

Smith averaged 9.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.9 blocks and 1.3 steals last season for the Lynx, her second campaign with the franchise.

«It’s hard to put into words what my time in Minnesota has meant to me,» Smith wrote in an Instagram post. «This team and this city embraced me and I am so grateful for all the love and support and how this Aussie girl was welcomed with open arms. Forever will hold a special place in my heart.»

The seven-year veteran was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury in 2019. Smith also played for the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky before signing with Minnesota in 2024. 

The Stanford alum won a bronze medal with Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she was named to the All-Star Five. Smith also secured an Unrivaled championship with Mist B.C. this offseason.

Smith is the second Lynx starter, alongside Bridget Carleton, who was selected by Portland in the expansion draft, to leave the team this offseason. Minnesota has also parted ways with reserves Shepard, Natisha Hiedeman (Seattle Storm), Karlie Samuelson (free agent, Portland) and Maria Kliundikova (selected by Toronto Tempo in expansion).