Azzi Fudd has made headlines by being selected as the first overall pick by the Dallas Wings during the 2026 WNBA Draft, held on April 13, 2026. As a prominent player who previously starred at the University of Connecticut (UConn), Fudd’s journey to this pivotal moment has been marked by both personal and professional development, with significant support coming from her girlfriend, Paige Bueckers.
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In a conversation with PEOPLE, Fudd, aged 23, revealed the insightful advice she received from Bueckers, who herself was the first overall pick for the Wings just the previous year. Bueckers encouraged Fudd to fully embrace the occasion, urging her to “soak this whole weekend in,” as such moments are rare. Fudd echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the experience, which she described as a culmination of hard work and dedication.
Reflecting on her girlfriend’s words, Fudd noted that Bueckers advised her to take mental notes throughout the weekend and not lose sight of her own identity. “Be confident, stay true to yourself, and remember what got you drafted,” Fudd recounted, underscoring the dual importance of relishing the moment while maintaining focus on her goals.
Not only did Fudd take pride in being the top pick, but she expressed her excitement about joining the same team as Bueckers. Speaking during the ESPN broadcast of the draft, Fudd said, “She’s an incredible person, an incredible player, and it’s going to be a lot of fun to play again.” This sentiment captures the culmination of their shared experiences, both on and off the court.
Fudd and Bueckers’ bond first blossomed while they were both part of the UConn basketball programme, where they achieved considerable success. Their chemistry culminated in winning the NCAA women’s basketball championship in 2025. The pair had sparked romance rumours for several months before Bueckers officially confirmed their relationship in a July 2025 interview.
Their relationship has been a significant source of support for both athletes, especially with the demands and pressures that come with being top draft picks in the competitive landscape of women’s basketball. In an interview on the Close Friends Only podcast, they discussed the immediate connection they felt upon meeting each other. Fudd reminisced about their first encounter, saying, “I feel like we really clicked when we met.”
Bueckers echoed this sentiment, reflecting on their early conversations and the ease with which they connected. According to Fudd, it was during the plane journey back to Minnesota that she realised the depth of their compatibility, stating, “I don’t remember talking to you at all off the court, but I remember talking to you on that plane ride and really liking you.” This bond has only strengthened over their time together, fostering both personal affection and collaborative strength on the basketball court.
As Fudd embarks on her professional career, she carries with her the wisdom imparted by Bueckers and the shared dreams they have for their futures in the WNBA. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting chapter in the lives of both athletes, showcasing their talent and the unique dynamic they have developed as teammates.
With the eyes of fans and analysts alike on the Dallas Wings, the integration of Fudd and Bueckers into the team is poised to redefine expectations in the league. Their journey serves as an inspiring narrative of love, support, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in sport, setting high hopes for what lies ahead in their respective careers.