Breaking: NaLyssa Smith Responds to Being Traded by the Dallas Wings to Las Vegas Aces!
In one of the most surprising moves of the WNBA season, the Dallas Wings have traded rising star NaLyssa Smith to the powerhouse Las Vegas Aces. The blockbuster deal, announced earlier today, sent shockwaves across the league and had fans scrambling for answers. Now, Smith herself has broken her silence, sharing her honest reaction and sending a message to both Dallas and her new home in Las Vegas.
Here’s what happened, why it matters, and how NaLyssa Smith is tackling this career-defining twist:
The Blockbuster Trade: How It Went Down
NaLyssa Smith, a dynamic forward and the former No. 2 overall draft pick, has been a cornerstone of the Dallas Wings’ promising youth movement since she entered the league. Known for her athleticism, relentless rebounding, and improving offensive game, Smith seemed to be a crucial part of Dallas’s future.
But pro basketball is a business, and big moves come fast. According to league insiders, Las Vegas—already boasting superstars like A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum—were looking to add depth and energy to make another championship push. The deal came together quickly, with Dallas receiving multiple future draft picks and a veteran wing in return.
Smith Breaks Her Silence: “It’s Bigger Than Me”
Shortly after the trade became official, NaLyssa Smith took to social media and later met with reporters in a hastily called Zoom press conference. Her message? A mix of gratitude, determination, and fiery optimism.
“You never see these things coming, you know? Dallas drafted me, believed in me, and I poured everything into the Wings jersey,” Smith began, her voice both steady and reflective. “But basketball is bigger than any one player. This is a business, and I want to win at the highest level. I can’t wait to get to Vegas, show who I am, and help bring another title to that city.”
She paused before addressing the Dallas fanbase directly:
“To the Wings and the city of Dallas—thank you for believing in me, for every cheer, and every up and down. I’ll always carry that with me. But now… it’s GO time.”
Smith’s Next Chapter: Fit With the Aces
For the Las Vegas Aces, adding a player like Smith is a statement of intent. Her versatility as a forward and ability to play both ends of the floor fits perfectly with the Aces’ up-tempo, team-oriented attack.
Aces GM Natalie Williams put it bluntly:
“NaLyssa is a game-changer. Her energy, her growth, her hunger—she’s exactly what we need to stay at the top. We’re thrilled to welcome her to Vegas.”
Paired with A’ja Wilson in the frontcourt, the Aces now boast one of the most athletic and versatile lineups in the league. In Las Vegas, Smith will have the opportunity to compete for a championship and continue her upward trajectory under the guidance of Becky Hammon, the reigning Coach of the Year.
The League Reacts: “A Win-Win Trade?”
Analysts everywhere are abuzz. Some see this as a win for Dallas, who gets valuable draft capital and cap flexibility. Others argue that the Aces just pulled off a coup, making an already intimidating lineup downright terrifying for the rest of the league.
ESPN’s LaChina Robinson weighed in:
“NaLyssa is a budding star. The Aces didn’t just get deeper—they got younger and more explosive. Don’t be surprised if she’s the X-factor in the playoffs.”
Meanwhile, Dallas is betting that its young core and new draft assets will shape a sustainable contender for years to come.
What’s Next for NaLyssa Smith?
As NaLyssa Smith heads west, one thing is clear: She won’t let this change define her—she’ll define the change.
“Adversity is part of greatness,” Smith posted just hours after the news broke. “A new chapter, a new city, but the same goals. I’m more motivated than ever.”
Her new Aces teammates have welcomed her with open arms, with A’ja Wilson tweeting:
“Let’s run it up, sis! Vegas is ready!”
The WNBA world will be watching closely. Will Smith help the Aces to yet another deep playoff run—or maybe even back-to-back titles? Can Dallas translate this bold move into future success? Whatever happens next, NaLyssa Smith’s journey has reached a thrilling new chapter, and her response proves she’s ready for whatever comes.
