Roster moves in the WNBA are often made to strengthen franchises and enhance their chances of contending for a championship. In the pursuit of better opportunities and improved salaries, retaining talent can become nearly impossible. That is precisely the case for Paige Bueckers, who has lost a key teammate with the Dallas Wings. DiJonai Carrington is leaving Texas to join the Minnesota Lynx.
The trade, announced Sunday, August 3, sends Carrington to Minnesota in exchange for Diamond Miller, Karlie Samuelson, and the Lynx’s 2027 second-round pick, according to the team’s statement.
The news broke early in the day, signaling a significant challenge ahead for Bueckers and her teammates. Carrington’s departure represents the loss of one of the squad’s foundational players, a void that will undoubtedly be felt throughout the remainder of the season.
DiJonai Carrington’s path to the hardwood
Carrington first played collegiate basketball at Stanford University before transferring to Baylor. She entered the WNBA in 2021 as the 20th overall pick by the Connecticut Sun, bringing with her a résumé that had already drawn considerable attention from scouts.
Before her college career, Carrington starred at Horizon Christian Academy in San Diego, California, where she posted staggering numbers. She scored more than 2,000 career points and averaged 18.8 points, 13.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.5 steals per game. Those performances propelled her to a standout tenure in the NCAA.
During her four seasons at Stanford from 2016 to 2020, Carrington helped lead the Cardinal to two Pac-12 conference titles, captured in 2017 and 2019.
She later transferred to Baylor for the 2020 season, where she immediately made an impact, earning honors as Newcomer of the Year and Sixth Person of the Year.
Carrington’s career in the WNBA
Carrington debuted in the WNBA in 2021 with the Connecticut Sun, steadily building her profile. Last year marked a breakthrough when the league announced her as the 2024 Most Improved Player. She also earned a spot on the 2024 All-Defensive First Team, underscoring her dual impact on both ends of the court.
In February 2025, Carrington was traded to the Dallas Wings. Her time in Texas was brief but dynamic, leaving fans impressed with her relentless energy and defensive intensity. Now, she will bring that same passion north to Minnesota, where expectations are high for her to bolster the Lynx’s push toward postseason contention and a possible championship run.
With these new airs that she will have in Minnesota, there is another chance for her to continue increasing her stats, learn from her new teammates, and try to stamp her footprint with the Lybnx. The new beginnings always bring something good with them. Her time is now to rocket her future.
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