DiJonai Carrington and NaLyssa Smith’s journey from Baylor to the WNBA is a testament to love, resilience, and perseverance. Their relationship has thrived despite challenges, and they continue to inspire fans around the world
Their story is not just about basketball—it’s about breaking barriers, being authentic, and showing that true love can exist even in the highly competitive world of professional sports.
As they continue to shine in the WNBA, Carrington and Smith will remain role models for the next generation of athletes who dream of success both on and off the court.
After a difficult 9-31 season, the Dallas Wings have made major moves to rebuild their roster. By acquiring DiJonai Carrington and NaLyssa Smith, along with the potential addition of Paige Bueckers, the Wings have set themselves up for a major turnaround in 2024.
If everything falls into place, Dallas has a realistic shot at making the playoffs and becoming a competitive force in the WNBA for years to come.
Also Read: DiJonai Carrington’s Furry Friend Sparks Fan Reactions Ahead of Game 2
Table of Contents
DiJonai Carrington and NaLyssa Smith’s Relationship
A Journey from Baylor to the WNBA
DiJonai Carrington and NaLyssa Smith are one of the most well-known couples in the WNBA.1
Their relationship started during their time at Baylor University, where they played together under legendary coach Kim Mulkey.
While their love story is inspiring, it also came with challenges, as Carrington recently revealed in an episode of Unapologetically Angel, a podcast hosted by Angel Reese.
In this article, we will explore their relationship, the moment Kim Mulkey confronted Carrington about it, and their journey in the WNBA.
LMAOOOOOOO yall I was freezing in the beginning but I thawed out , chillllllll https://t.co/yH9dU4Ejc0
— dιjonaι carrιngтon♛ (@DijonaiVictoria) March 8, 2025
Kim Mulkey’s Leadership and Coaching Style
Kim Mulkey is known for her fiery coaching style and commitment to winning. She led Baylor to multiple national championships and developed many elite players. However, her approach has sometimes sparked controversy.
Mulkey has a reputation for being direct and unfiltered, which can be motivating for some players but challenging for others.
Her conversation with Carrington about her relationship with Smith is an example of how she pays close attention to team dynamics.
While Mulkey may have been simply observing her players’ interactions, some might see her questions as intrusive.
In women’s sports, conversations about relationships and personal lives have often been handled differently than in men’s sports, leading to discussions about double standards and privacy.
DiJonai Carrington’s Revelation on “Unapologetically Angel”
DiJonai Carrington opened up about a past conversation she had with Kim Mulkey during her college days at Baylor.2
On Unapologetically Angel, she recalled how Mulkey called her into her office after a team meeting in which Carrington had defended Smith.
Carrington explained that she spoke up because she felt Smith was being unfairly blamed for certain team issues. However, Mulkey seemed to suspect that there was more to their bond.
“She asked me, ‘Do you and Lyss call yourselves a thing? Y’all call yourselves an item?’” Carrington recalled. She was caught off guard and responded with confusion.
Mulkey’s reaction suggested that she had already formed an opinion. “She said, ‘Hmm, yesterday you sure were really on her side,’” Carrington added.
Carrington brushed off the conversation and quickly left to get ready for practice. But this moment was significant because it showed that Mulkey had noticed the deep bond between the two players.
Their Time at Baylor: A Strong Bond Forms
NaLyssa Smith spent her entire college career at Baylor, while Carrington transferred to the program for the 2020-21 season after playing at Stanford.
Although their time together in college was brief, their connection grew stronger both on and off the court.
Baylor was one of the top programs in women’s college basketball, and both Carrington and Smith played crucial roles on the team. Smith was a dominant force in the paint, while Carrington was known for her versatility and toughness.
Playing together helped solidify their bond, but it was also a time of personal growth and discovery. They had to navigate their relationship while also dealing with the pressures of being top athletes at a major program.
DiJonai Carrington’s WNBA Journey
Carrington was drafted in the second round of the 2021 WNBA Draft by the Connecticut Sun.3
Despite being a late draft pick, she quickly proved her worth with her defensive skills, athleticism, and ability to make an impact off the bench.
Her tenacity and energy earned her a solid role in the Sun’s rotation. Over time, she became known as one of the league’s best perimeter defenders and a valuable contributor to the team.
NaLyssa Smith was the second overall pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft, selected by the Indiana Fever. She was immediately recognized as a cornerstone player for the franchise.
Smith’s ability to score in the paint, rebound, and stretch the floor made her an essential piece for the rebuilding Fever. She has continued to develop into one of the league’s best young forwards.
Being a Power Couple in the WNBA
Carrington and Smith’s relationship has remained strong despite playing for different teams in the WNBA. They have embraced being a high-profile couple in women’s basketball, using their platform to inspire others.
Representation is important in sports, and their visibility as an LGBTQ+ couple in professional basketball has been meaningful for many fans.
They have received support from the WNBA community and their followers, proving that love and basketball can coexist at the highest level.
Both players have spoken about the importance of being their authentic selves and not letting outside opinions affect their relationship.
Challenges Faced as LGBTQ+ Athletes
While the WNBA is one of the most inclusive professional leagues, LGBTQ+ athletes still face challenges. Public scrutiny, societal expectations, and personal privacy can be difficult to manage.
Carrington and Smith have had to navigate these challenges while focusing on their basketball careers. They have handled their relationship with grace, setting an example for younger athletes who may be struggling with their own identities.
Their story highlights the importance of creating inclusive environments in sports where athletes feel comfortable being themselves without fear of judgment.
DiJonai Carrington’s Impact on Young Athletes
Carrington and Smith’s relationship is inspiring for many young athletes who look up to them.
Their story encourages people to embrace who they are and not let societal pressures dictate their personal lives.
By being open about their journey, they have shown that it is possible to succeed in sports while staying true to oneself.
Young basketball players, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, can see role models in Carrington and Smith, proving that love and sports are not mutually exclusive.
How Fans and the WNBA Community Have Responded
The WNBA has long been a league that supports social justice, equality, and inclusivity. Fans have embraced Carrington and Smith as one of the league’s most beloved couples.
Social media has played a role in highlighting their journey. Fans regularly celebrate their relationship, whether it’s through game-day support, social media posts, or interactions at events.
The league itself has also promoted inclusivity through campaigns and initiatives, making it easier for players to be open about who they are. Both Carrington and Smith have bright futures in the WNBA.
As Carrington continues to develop her game, she is likely to become an even bigger asset for the Connecticut Sun.
If she keeps improving offensively, she could establish herself as one of the top two-way players in the league.
Smith has already shown flashes of stardom with the Indiana Fever. If she continues to refine her game, she has the potential to become one of the best forwards in the league.
Their individual careers will be exciting to watch, and their bond will likely remain a strong source of motivation for both players.
DiJonai Carrington: Defensive Anchor for Dallas
One of the most exciting additions to the Wings’ roster is DiJonai Carrington, a dynamic guard known for her tenacious defense and aggressive scoring ability.
Carrington, a former Baylor standout, played the last three seasons with the Connecticut Sun, where she became a key player off the bench. She brings:
- Elite perimeter defense – Carrington is one of the best on-ball defenders in the WNBA, capable of guarding multiple positions.
- Scoring versatility – While primarily a defensive specialist, she has improved her offensive game, averaging a career-high 9.7 points per game last season.
- Toughness and leadership – Carrington’s energy and competitive spirit make her an invaluable asset for a young Dallas team looking to establish an identity.
With Carrington in the backcourt, Dallas gains a player who can make life difficult for opposing guards and contribute on both ends of the floor.
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NaLyssa Smith: A Future Star in the Frontcourt
The addition of NaLyssa Smith is another major win for the Wings. The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft, Smith is a versatile forward with a high ceiling.
During her time with the Indiana Fever, Smith showcased her ability as a double-double machine, averaging 14.5 points and 9.2 rebounds per game in 2023. Her strengths include:
- Elite rebounding – Smith is an excellent rebounder, helping Dallas address one of their key weaknesses from last season.
- Scoring ability – She has a solid mid-range game and the potential to extend her shooting range beyond the arc.
- Athleticism – Smith’s quickness and mobility make her a tough matchup for traditional bigs.
In Dallas, she will have an opportunity to take on a bigger role, especially with Satou Sabally no longer on the team. Pairing Smith with Teaira McCowan in the frontcourt gives the Wings a formidable inside presence.
Tyasha Harris: A Familiar Face Returns
In addition to Carrington and Smith, the Wings also acquired Tyasha Harris, a player Dallas fans already know well.
Harris was originally drafted by Dallas in 2020 and spent three seasons with the team before being traded to Connecticut. She is a steady point guard with strong playmaking skills and will add valuable depth to the Wings’ backcourt.
Her role in the rotation will likely depend on how the coaching staff utilizes Arike Ogunbowale and how they approach the No. 1 overall pick in the draft.
Also Read: Dijonai Carrington Reacts to NaLyssa Smith’s Tweets with Cryptic As She Should Message
