Dallas Wings Trade Diamond Miller to Connecticut Sun for Rayah Marshall
The Dallas Wings are continuing a significant roster overhaul ahead of the 2026 WNBA season. On Thursday, April 9, 2026, the Wings announced they have traded forward Diamond Miller to the Connecticut Sun in exchange for center/forward Rayah Marshall.
This move is part of a broader strategy by Dallas to reshape its frontcourt and build a competitive roster around 2025 No. 1 overall pick Paige Bueckers and the upcoming top pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft.
Analyzing the Trade: Impact and Objectives
Dallas Wings: Prioritizing Size and Youth
By acquiring Rayah Marshall, the Wings are “sizing up” their frontcourt. Marshall, a former standout at the University of Southern California (USC), brings a physical presence to the interior. The trade comes just days before the 2026 WNBA Draft, scheduled for April 13, where Dallas holds the No. 1 overall pick for the second consecutive year.
Alongside this trade, Dallas is focusing on retaining core talent. The team recently confirmed that center Li Yueru and guard Grace Berger have accepted qualifying offers to return for 2026. The Wings extended a core qualifying offer to All-Star guard Arike Ogunbowale, setting the stage for a potential long-term extension.
Connecticut Sun: Betting on Upside
The Sun are acquiring Diamond Miller, the No. 2 overall pick from the 2023 WNBA Draft. Despite a tumultuous start to her career—including a right knee injury in May 2024 that required surgery—Miller is viewed as having tremendous upside. The 6-foot-3 forward brings versatility and athleticism to a young Connecticut core that includes Aneesah Morrow, Saniya Rivers, and Leila Lacan.
Player Profiles
Diamond Miller
- Draft Pedigree: No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft.
- Recent Performance: Appeared in 15 regular-season games for Dallas, averaging 3.9 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.1 assists.
- Background: An All-American at Maryland and former all-rookie honoree with the Minnesota Lynx.
Rayah Marshall
- Draft Pedigree: No. 25 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
- Recent Performance: Appeared in 15 regular-season games for the Sun in 2025, averaging 1.7 points and 1.7 rebounds.
- Background: A four-year standout at USC (2021–25) who led the Trojans to back-to-back NCAA Elite Eight appearances in 2024 and 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Shift: Dallas is aggressively restructuring its roster around its top draft assets (Bueckers and the 2026 No. 1 pick).
- Frontcourt Swap: The Wings gain a traditional center/forward in Marshall, although the Sun gain a versatile wing in Miller.
- Draft Timing: The trade occurs immediately preceding the April 13 draft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Dallas Wings trade Diamond Miller?
The Wings are revamping their roster for the 2026 season, aiming for a more dynamic frontcourt and building around their top draft picks.
Who is Rayah Marshall?
Marshall is a forward/center from USC who was selected 25th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft and spent her rookie season with the Connecticut Sun.
What is the status of other Dallas Wings players?
Li Yueru and Grace Berger are returning for 2026, and Arike Ogunbowale has received a core qualifying offer.