FORMER WNBA ALL-STAR TAJ MCWILLIAMS-FRANKLIN JOINS THE DALLAS WINGS
McWilliams-Franklin to serve as an assistant coach on Fred Williams’ staff
ARLINGTON, TX– The Dallas Wings announced today the addition of six-time WNBA All-Star Taj McWilliams-Franklin to the team’s coaching staff. McWilliams-Franklin will join head coach Fred Williams and former WNBA standout, assistant coach Bridget Pettis. She is a two-time WNBA champion, a WNBL champion and a Euro League champion, and most recently served as head coach for Post University located in Waterbury, CT.
“Taj is going to be a great asset to our coaching staff,” Head Coach Fred Williams stated. “I’m confident she will bring a high level of basketball knowledge, work ethic and coaching experience to our organization. She is a proven champion and WNBA player, and I have full confidence she will shine as a coach. We look forward to having her as an addition to our staff.”
In her collegiate career at St. Edwards University, McWilliams-Franklin set school records in career scoring (1,837), most points scored for a single season (760), and highest scoring average (24.5 ppg). During her three years, McWilliams-Franklin was a three-time all-conference honoree, and two-time all-America selection. She was also named NAIA National Player of the Year in 1993.
Professionally, McWilliams-Franklin began her playing career overseas; after three seasons, she was drafted in 1996 by the Philadelphia Rage of the ABL. In 1999 she was selected third overall by the WNBA’s Orlando Miracle, ultimately playing eight seasons with the Miracle and Connecticut Sun. She also enjoyed stints with the Los Angeles Sparks, the Detroit Shock, the New York Liberty, Washington Mystics and Minnesota Lynx.
After playing professionally for parts of three decades, McWilliams-Franklin spent the past several years coaching with the Liberty, Boston University and Rice University, in addition to her current role at Post University.
“I’m beyond grateful and excited to start this journey with the Dallas Wings,” McWilliams-Franklin stated. “I want to thank Post University and the Waterbury/Southbury community for embracing me and my family these past two years, and I look forward to using what I have gained there to be a positive impact in Dallas. I am appreciative of Greg Bibb, Fred Williams and the ownership group of the Wings for giving me this opportunity. I look forward to working with the organization’s players, coaches and staff as we pursue a WNBA Championship for the greater Dallas-Fort Worth region.”
The Dallas Wings will begin training camp on April 23. Season tickets for the 2017 season are on sale now, starting at $22 per game. Fans can purchase by calling 817.469.9464 or by visiting www.dallaswingsbasketball.com.