In a groundbreaking moment for women’s basketball, Azzi Fudd has been selected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. This selection not only highlights Fudd’s exceptional talent but also marks a significant milestone for UConn, as she becomes the seventh player from the university to achieve this honor.
Fudd’s journey to this point has been shaped by her impressive performances at UConn, where she, alongside Paige Bueckers, led the team to a national championship in 2025. Their chemistry and shared history have made their reunion in Dallas a highly anticipated event. “Paige is an incredible player, everyone knows that,” Fudd expressed, reflecting on their time together.
The Dallas Wings’ general manager confirmed that Fudd was always their top choice for the No. 1 selection, emphasizing her elite shooting ability and basketball IQ. Fudd’s skills are expected to bring a new level of competitiveness to the team, which has been actively seeking to enhance its roster.
Fudd’s payday as the No. 1 pick is set at $500,000, a significant increase attributed to the new collective bargaining agreement that has raised rookie salaries across the league. This financial boost is a testament to the growing recognition and investment in women’s sports.
In addition to Fudd’s selection, the draft saw a record number of international players, with 11 selected overall, including 3 in the first round. This trend underscores the increasing global talent pool in the WNBA, further enhancing the league’s competitiveness and appeal.
Fudd’s mother, Katie Smrcka-Duffy Fudd, was also drafted into the WNBA in 2001, making this achievement a proud moment for the Fudd family. The legacy of talent continues as Azzi steps into her professional career, carrying the weight of expectations and hopes from both her family and fans.
As Fudd prepares to join the Dallas Wings, the basketball community is buzzing with excitement. Her reunion with Bueckers is expected to create a formidable partnership on the court, potentially transforming the Wings into a playoff contender. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the team’s strategy moving forward, but the anticipation is palpable.
With the draft now complete, all eyes will be on how Fudd adapts to the professional level and how her presence will influence the dynamics of the Dallas Wings. The future looks bright for both Fudd and the WNBA as they continue to break barriers and set new records in women’s sports.