Awak Kuier, the 6‑foot‑6 forward who was the No. 2 pick in the 2021 draft, has made a highly anticipated return to the WNBA for the 2026 season. After spending the previous year honing her craft with an Italian club, the 24‑year‑old arrives back in the league with a refreshed skill set and a newfound physical presence that has already begun to reshape her role with the Dallas Wings.
A New Physical Identity
General manager Curt Miller was instrumental in bringing Kuier back, emphasizing the need for a more rugged, disciplined approach. Miller noted that Kuier’s body has changed dramatically during her time overseas, adding muscle and strength that translate into more imposing defense and more effective post play. The coaching staff has embraced this evolution, positioning her as a cornerstone of the team’s interior defense.
The statistical impact is already evident. In her first seven appearances of the season, Kuier has started every game and helped the Wings to their best start since 2018. Her defensive rating improves noticeably whenever she is on the floor, and her offensive efficiency has jumped to a 55.8% true shooting percentage — a marked increase from the 2.6 points per game she averaged during her initial stint in the league.
Beyond the numbers, Kuier’s style of play is defined by physicality on both ends of the court. She has spoken openly about the team’s tendency to settle for three‑point attempts and the need to attack the paint more aggressively. "We have to be more physical and disciplined," she said, "and that starts with setting the tone in the paint."
The forward’s confidence has grown alongside her skill set. Having entered the league at 19, she now feels a firm belief that she belongs among the WNBA’s elite. "I’m more determined than ever," Kuier remarked, "and I’m looking to make a bigger impact, even if that means finishing a game with a dunk."
Her resurgence comes at a pivotal moment for the franchise. With key contributors like Charli Collier and Chelsea Dungee also seeing increased roles, the Wings are poised to translate their early-season momentum into a deeper playoff run. Kuier’s blend of size, defensive tenacity, and newfound offensive efficiency could be the catalyst the team needs to finally break through the barriers that have held them back in recent years.