In a highly anticipated moment in the 2026 WNBA Draft, Azzi Fudd was named the No. 1 overall pick, heading to the Dallas Wings. This selection not only marks a significant milestone in Fudd's career but also orchestrates a reunion with her girlfriend, Paige Bueckers, who is already a prominent player for the Wings.
Fudd Joins Dallas, Eager for Reunion
The announcement on April 13, 2026, sparked excitement among fans and players alike. Bueckers, present at the draft among her former UConn Huskies teammates, witnessed the pivotal moment. The connection between Fudd and Bueckers, forged over years of shared experiences, both triumphs and challenges, now extends to the professional court.
Speaking to ESPN’s Holly Rowe after the draft, Fudd shared her enthusiasm: “I am excited to play again with Paige, incredible player, incredible person.” This sentiment highlights the personal and professional synergy expected to boost the Dallas Wings.
A Decorated College Career and Future Impact
Fudd arrives in Dallas following a distinguished collegiate career. Despite battling injuries that occasionally interrupted her rhythm, she consistently showcased her elite talent, including a memorable 34-point performance in the NCAA Tournament.
Reflecting on her time at UConn, Fudd emphasized the invaluable lessons learned. “Not how we wanted to end our season, but I think the biggest takeaway was how incredible my five years have been,” she stated. “Being able to learn from that, being able to take all those experiences, the wins, the losses, the hard practices, the everything, the good, the bad, you can grow from that. All those habits, that championship, that winning mentality, I have to be able to bring those with me.”
With Bueckers already acclimated to the WNBA's demands, their combined presence is expected to offer the Wings a powerful blend of scoring, playmaking, and an inherent trust that develops over years.
WNBA's Tradition of On-Court Partnerships
The WNBA has a history of relationships extending beyond the court, with several couples playing together. Pioneers like Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor established a legacy of championship success and a shared life. Later, Allie Quigley and Courtney Vandersloot became a defining duo for the Chicago Sky, contributing to a title run. More recently, Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner have continued this tradition, balancing elite performance with a shared journey across teams.
Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers now step into this lineage, their long-standing connection poised to be tested and celebrated on the larger WNBA stage.