Overview
- Dallas announced Fernandez’s hiring on Monday, ending his 25-year tenure leading South Florida’s program.
- UConn coach Geno Auriemma praised the move, calling Fernandez a great hire, an innovator and a relationship-focused communicator.
- Fernandez compiled nearly 500 wins with multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and is noted for recruiting and developing international talent.
- He replaces Chris Koclanes after a 10–34 season, becoming the Wings’ fifth permanent head coach since 2018 as Dallas builds around Rookie of the Year Paige Bueckers.
- USF CEO Rob Higgins confirmed Fernandez’s departure for a WNBA opportunity and appointed Michele Woods-Baxter as interim head coach.