Since her WNBA debut in 2021, Dallas Wings guard DiJonai Carrington has established herself as one of the league’s most formidable two-way players. Renowned for her defensive tenacity and relentless energy, she became a key contributor for the Connecticut Sun before emerging as a veteran leader in the Wings’ locker room.
Carrington’s defensive identity is famously captured by her “Seat Belt Gang” celebration, a viral symbol of lockdown defense. She attributes this prowess to a simple philosophy: “controlling the controllables.”
“It takes heart to play on both sides of the ball,” Carrington explained. “You might have games where your shot’s not falling or you’re not getting touches. You can always impact the game on defense, and that’s just making it hard for the other team. It doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet… but making it difficult for your opponent is something that I can actually control every single night.”
This work ethic fueled Carrington’s evolution from a spark off the bench to a game-changing starter. Her breakout 2024 season saw her achieve career highs in points (12.7), rebounds (5.0), assists (1.6), and steals (1.56), culminating in her being named the league’s Most Improved Player.
“I’ve never been caught up in accolades, but it feels good to feel like your hard work is being recognized on the biggest stage,” Carrington said of the award. “It was nice to be like, ‘Dang, somebody actually recognized that I am working on my game.’”
Now in her fifth WNBA season, Carrington has embraced a mentorship role with the Wings, guiding rookies Paige Bueckers, JJ Quinerly, and Aziaha James. She draws on her own experience of being mentored by veterans like Jasmine Thomas, DeWanna Bonner, and Alyssa Thomas during her time with the Sun.
Despite the Wings’ current 8-20 record, Carrington emphasizes that the team’s chemistry is a significant strength. “It’s not going the way that we wanted it to as far as wins and losses, but one of the best parts is that we all get along,” she stated. “Being able to have a good culture in a locker room… is so big. We enjoy being around each other, and I think that is such a huge piece when building a team.”
As she navigates this new chapter in Dallas, Carrington continues to build on the resilience demanded by her collegiate and professional career, a journey marked by both personal and professional challenges, including the emotional trade of her girlfriend and teammate, NaLyssa Smith.
Source link
