Former Baylor star NaLyssa Smith trade has been traded from the Dallas Wings to the Las Vegas Aces in a major WNBA transaction. Here’s the full trade breakdown, team strategies, and what this move means for the 2025 season.
NaLyssa Smith trade to Las Vegas Aces: A Complete Analysis of the Blockbuster WNBA Deal
In a transaction that has sent ripples across the WNBA landscape, NaLyssa Smith, one of the league’s most promising young forwards and a former Baylor standout, has been traded to the Las Vegas Aces from the Dallas Wings. The deal, announced on June 30, 2025, signifies a pivotal moment for both franchises as they pursue distinct strategic goals.
The Aces, perennial contenders in the WNBA, secured Smith in exchange for an unprotected 2027 first-round draft pick, underscoring their commitment to immediate success. For Dallas, the move represents a long-term play, prioritizing future draft capital over present depth.
NaLyssa Smith Trade Structure: Who Got What?
Las Vegas Aces
- Acquired: NaLyssa Smith (Forward, 6’4”)
- Waived: Liz Kitley and Tiffany Mitchell to create roster flexibility.
Dallas Wings
- Acquired: Las Vegas Aces’ unprotected 2027 first-round pick
- Waived: Kaila Charles to finalize roster alignment.
This transaction, though involving just one player and one future pick, carries significant implications for both organizations.
NaLyssa Smith trade Career Trajectory: From Baylor Glory to Professional Evolution
NaLyssa Smith entered the professional ranks as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft, selected by the Indiana Fever following an illustrious collegiate career at Baylor University. At Baylor, Smith earned national acclaim for her dominant interior play, rebounding prowess, and scoring efficiency, helping the Bears maintain their status among the NCAA elite.
Smith’s early professional tenure with Indiana showcased her potential, including an All-Rookie Team selection in 2022. She averaged double figures in scoring and consistently ranked among the team’s leading rebounders.
However, after two seasons with Indiana, Smith was moved to the Dallas Wings in February 2025 as part of a complex four-team trade. While the Dallas chapter offered a homecoming to Texas, her on-court impact was limited; she averaged 6.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game over 18 appearances, shooting 42.5% from the field.
Why NaLyssa Smith Trade Happened: Strategic Imperatives for Both Teams
For the Las Vegas Aces
Las Vegas has established itself as a championship-caliber team over recent seasons. Yet, injuries and inconsistent bench production exposed vulnerabilities. By acquiring Smith, the Aces address critical frontcourt depth needs while creating a formidable pairing with A’ja Wilson, the franchise cornerstone.
Smith’s versatility—capable of playing both power forward and small-ball center—provides head coach Becky Hammon with tactical flexibility. While sacrificing an unprotected first-round pick is a substantial gamble, it signals an organizational focus on maximizing the current competitive window.
For the Dallas Wings
Dallas, by contrast, is embracing a long-term rebuilding strategy. Anchored by rookie sensation Paige Bueckers, the Wings are constructing a roster around youth, financial flexibility, and high-value draft assets. Acquiring an unprotected first-round pick in 2027 aligns perfectly with that vision.
By moving Smith, Dallas frees up cap space and ensures roster cohesion while prioritizing players who fit their future timeline.
Emotional Fallout: Smith’s Reaction and Player Relationships
Trades are business decisions, but they also carry personal ramifications. Shortly after the deal was announced, Smith posted a candid message on social media:
“Sick to my stomach dawg, never seen this coming…but I love you Dallas Nation…”
Her comments underscore the emotional challenges athletes face amid unexpected moves. Adding to the narrative is her relationship with fellow WNBA player DiJonai Carrington, with whom she shared both a personal and professional bond in Dallas. The separation adds a human dimension to this transaction, resonating with fans and teammates alike.
Performance Metrics and Statistical Profile
- Position: Forward
- Height: 6’4”
- WNBA Career Stats:
- Indiana Fever: Double-digit scoring averages, All-Rookie selection (2022).
- Dallas Wings (2025): 6.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, .425 FG%.
- Strengths: Interior scoring, rebounding, defensive versatility.
Smith’s capacity to contribute as a rebounder and mid-range threat remains valuable. The Aces will look to optimize her within an offensive system that prioritizes pace, spacing, and defensive discipline.
What This Means for the WNBA Landscape
This trade exemplifies several broader trends in professional women’s basketball:
- High-Value Draft Picks as Currency: Future first-round selections are increasingly leveraged to secure proven talent.
- Aggressive Title Windows: Contenders like Las Vegas are willing to assume risk in exchange for immediate competitive advantage.
- Dynamic Player Movement: The WNBA continues to see increased roster mobility, reflecting both strategic complexity and player market dynamics.
Projected Impact for the 2025 Season and Beyond
Las Vegas Aces Outlook
The addition of NaLyssa Smith strengthens the Aces’ frontcourt rotation and mitigates fatigue concerns for star players during the grueling second half of the season. If Smith adapts quickly, Las Vegas could enter the playoffs with renewed momentum.
Dallas Wings Outlook
Dallas may endure short-term growing pains but emerges from this transaction with a valuable future asset. With Bueckers developing into a franchise cornerstone, the Wings are positioned to retool for sustained success over the next three seasons.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About the NaLyssa Smith Trade
1. Why did the Las Vegas Aces pursue NaLyssa Smith?
The Aces sought to bolster frontcourt depth and provide support for A’ja Wilson in pursuit of another championship run.
2. What did Dallas receive in return?
Dallas acquired the Aces’ unprotected 2027 first-round pick, aligning with their long-term rebuilding plan.
3. How did NaLyssa Smith trade perform with Dallas?
In 18 games this season, Smith averaged 6.7 points and 4.9 rebounds while shooting 42.5% from the field.
4. Was this Smith’s first trade?
No. She was previously moved from Indiana to Dallas in February 2025 as part of a four-team deal.
5. How does this trade reflect WNBA trends?
It illustrates the league’s growing emphasis on roster fluidity, aggressive team-building, and the strategic use of draft assets.
Conclusion
The NaLyssa Smith trade is more than a headline; it is a case study in modern WNBA team-building. For Las Vegas, it represents a bold pursuit of immediate glory. For Dallas, it signifies disciplined future planning. For Smith, it marks the next chapter in a career defined by adaptability and promise.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on whether this high-stakes gamble pays dividends for the Aces—and how the Wings leverage their newly acquired draft capital to shape their destiny.