Satou Sabally Bids Farewell to Dallas Wings, Eyes New Chapter in Free Agency
Two-time WNBA All-Star Satou Sabally has officially communicated her desire to leave the Dallas Wings after five seasons with the franchise. The 26-year-old forward,who was selected as the No. 2 pick in the 2020 WNBA Draft,expressed her gratitude for her time in Dallas but confirmed she is ready for a fresh start.
“I’ve already communicated with Dallas how grateful I am as they’ve made this a home for me for the last five years,” Sabally said during a news conference ahead of the debut season of Unrivaled, a new 3×3 offseason league co-founded by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. “I’m working with them together to find the next home for me because I’ve already played my last game in Dallas.”
sabally, a 2023 all-WNBA first-team selection, is now an unrestricted free agent and is expected to be one of the most sought-after players in the league. However, the Wings retain the option to core her, which would restrict her movement to a sign-and-trade scenario. Dallas can extend a qualifying offer to core-eligible players starting January 11.
The announcement comes during a period of notable transition for the Wings.The franchise recently appointed Chris Koclanes as head coach and Curt Miller as general manager. Koclanes, a first-year head coach, brings experiance from his time as an assistant at USC and eight seasons as a WNBA assistant under Miller. Miller, who previously coached the Los Angeles Sparks and Connecticut Sun, emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation for the team.
“The word for us this year is foundational,” Miller said at Koclanes’ introductory news conference. “We’re trying to create a true foundation not only in style of play and what our pillars are on and off the floor but also in free agency.”
Despite Sabally’s departure, the Wings remain optimistic about their future. Star guard arike Ogunbowale is still under contract, and the team holds the rights to the No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft,where UConn standout Paige Bueckers is the presumed selection if she declares for the draft. Additionally, the franchise is planning a relocation from Arlington to downtown Dallas by the start of the 2026 season, along with the opening of a new practice facility.
Sabally’s decision to leave comes after a challenging season in which she missed the majority of games due to a shoulder injury sustained while playing for the German national team. Despite the setback, she averaged an impressive 17.9 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, showcasing her elite talent.
“At first they were still trying, but I think what is most effective is working with the player and listening to their wishes and hearing out how we can find a best solution for each other,” Sabally said. “There was always great communication, more so on the agent front now as I need to focus on Unrivaled, and I will. I have good communication with them.”
As Sabally prepares for free agency, her departure marks the end of an era for the Wings but opens the door to new opportunities for both the player and the franchise.| Key Points | Details |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Player | Satou Sabally |
| Team | Dallas Wings |
| Status | Unrestricted free agent |
| career Highlights | Two-time WNBA All-Star, 2023 all-WNBA first-team forward |
| 2023 Stats | 17.9 PPG, 6.4 RPG (despite injury) |
| Future Plans | Seeking new team in free agency |
| Wings’ Transition | New coach (chris Koclanes) and GM (Curt Miller) |
| Franchise Moves | Relocation to downtown Dallas by 2026, new practice facility |
Sabally’s next chapter promises to be as dynamic as her time in dallas, and fans across the league will be watching closely to see where the star forward lands.
(Photo: Kirby lee / Imagn Images)
Satou sabally’s Free Agency Journey: A New Chapter for the WNBA Star
Table of Contents
Two-time WNBA All-Star Satou Sabally has officially entered free agency after five impactful seasons with the Dallas Wings. As one of the league’s most dynamic forwards,Sabally’s decision to seek a new team has sparked widespread interest across the WNBA. In this exclusive interview, we sit down with basketball analyst and WNBA expert, Dr. Emily Carter, to discuss Sabally’s career highlights, her future plans, and what her departure means for the Dallas Wings.
Sabally’s Legacy in Dallas
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter,Satou Sabally has been a cornerstone for the Dallas Wings as being drafted second overall in 2020. How would you summarize her impact on the franchise?
Dr. Emily Carter: Sabally’s impact on the Wings has been immense. She brought versatility, leadership, and a high basketball IQ to the team. despite battling injuries, she consistently delivered standout performances, earning two All-Star selections and a spot on the 2023 All-WNBA First team. Her ability to score, rebound, and defend at an elite level made her a fan favorite and a key piece of the Wings’ core.
Free Agency and Sabally’s Next Move
Senior Editor: Sabally is now an unrestricted free agent. What do you think makes her such a sought-after player in this free agency period?
dr. Emily Carter: Sabally’s combination of size, skill, and experience makes her a rare talent in the WNBA. At just 26 years old, she’s entering her prime and has already proven she can perform at an All-Star level. Teams looking to contend will see her as a game-changer who can elevate their roster promptly. Her ability to play both forward positions and stretch the floor with her shooting adds to her value.
The Dallas Wings’ Transition
Senior Editor: The Wings are undergoing significant changes, with a new head coach and general manager.How do you see Sabally’s departure affecting the team’s rebuilding process?
Dr. Emily carter: Sabally’s departure is undoubtedly a loss for the Wings, but it also presents an possibility for the franchise to redefine its identity under new leadership. Chris Koclanes and Curt Miller bring fresh perspectives and a clear vision for the team. While losing a player of Sabally’s caliber is challenging, it could free up resources to build a more balanced roster and develop younger talent. The Wings’ relocation to downtown Dallas by 2026 and their new practice facility also signal a commitment to long-term growth.
What’s Next for Sabally?
Senior Editor: Were do you see Sabally landing next,and what factors will influence her decision?
Dr. Emily Carter: Sabally’s decision will likely come down to a combination of competitive opportunity, financial terms, and team culture. Contenders like the Las Vegas aces or New York Liberty could be attractive destinations, as they offer a chance to compete for a championship immediately. However, Sabally might also consider teams with a strong developmental focus, where she can continue to grow her game. Ultimately, her choice will reflect her priorities at this stage of her career.
Final Thoughts
Senior Editor: As we wrap up, what message would you like to share with fans who have followed Sabally’s journey?
Dr. Emily Carter: To the fans, I’d say this is an exciting time to be a WNBA supporter. sabally’s free agency is a reminder of the league’s growing talent pool and the competitive balance that makes every season unpredictable. Wherever she lands, Sabally will continue to be a force on the court, and her next chapter promises to be as thrilling as her time in Dallas.
photo Credit: Kirby lee / imagn Images
