Wings Bring Back EuroLeague Defensive Star Awak Kuier

The 24-year-old South Sudanese-Finnish forward is returning to the WNBA after starring overseas.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:18am

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A dynamic, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the powerful defensive motion of a WNBA player blocking a shot, conveying the raw energy and intensity of the game.An explosive, neon-hued illustration captures the defensive prowess of Awak Kuier as she rises up to block a shot, a testament to her impact on the court.Dallas Today

The Dallas Wings have announced that they are re-signing forward Awak Kuier, who was the 2nd overall pick in the 2021 WNBA Draft. Kuier spent the last three seasons playing in Europe, where she emerged as one of the top defensive players in the EuroLeague. The 6-foot-5 forward is now set to return to the Wings as they look to build around their young core.

Why it matters

Kuier's return to the Wings is a significant boost for the franchise as they continue their rebuilding efforts. Her defensive prowess and improved offensive game could make her a key piece alongside the team's other young talents like Arike Ogunbowale. Her signing also impacts the Wings' plans for the upcoming 2026 WNBA Draft, where they hold the 1st overall pick.

The details

Kuier was originally drafted 2nd overall by the Wings in 2021 after a standout career in Europe. She struggled to make an impact in her first WNBA stint, averaging just 2.6 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. However, after returning to Europe, Kuier's game took a major leap. She spent the last two seasons starring for Galatasaray in Turkey, putting up 11.5 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game while leading the EuroLeague in blocks.

  • Kuier was originally drafted by the Wings in 2021.
  • She played for the Wings in the 2021-2023 WNBA seasons.
  • Kuier then returned to Europe and starred for Galatasaray in Turkey from 2024-2025.
  • The Wings announced Kuier's re-signing on April 11, 2026.

The players

Awak Kuier

A 24-year-old South Sudanese-Finnish forward who was the 2nd overall pick in the 2021 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. After struggling in her first WNBA stint, Kuier returned to Europe and emerged as one of the top defensive players in the EuroLeague.

Curt Miller

The general manager of the Dallas Wings, who has expressed the team's desire to bring Kuier back as part of their long-term rebuilding plans.

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What they’re saying

“We do like the youth that we're adding and have available. Even the fact that no one talks about Awak Kuier anymore — and such a young, dynamic piece that's a part of our future also — is just exciting to think about.”

— Curt Miller, Dallas Wings General Manager

What’s next

The Wings' re-signing of Kuier could impact who they choose with the 1st overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, which is set to take place on Monday.

The takeaway

Awak Kuier's return to the Dallas Wings is a significant move that bolsters their young core and defensive identity. After proving herself as an elite shot-blocker and rebounder in Europe, Kuier's addition gives the Wings another promising piece to build around as they look to return to the playoffs.