In an electrifying moment at The Shed in New York City, Azzi Fudd was announced as the first overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft on April 13, 2026. The 23-year-old, hailing from Virginia and a distinguished former player for the University of Connecticut, finds herself taking the court alongside her girlfriend and fellow UConn alum, Paige Bueckers, who is 24 years old. Both athletes previously showcased their exceptional talent as part of the Connecticut Huskies and were instrumental in winning the NCAA National Championship in 2025.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Azzi-Fudd-Paige-Bueckers-041326-ae1881a034e84e1d8732a132d7681a43.jpg)
During her post-selection interview, Fudd expressed her enthusiasm for reuniting with Bueckers in Dallas, stating, “I’m excited to play again with Paige.” The announcement was met with cheers from the audience, including Bueckers, who smiled proudly as she listened to her girlfriend discuss their future at the Wings.
Fudd shared her excitement not only about joining the team but also about the supportive relationship she has with Bueckers. “She’s an incredible person,” Fudd remarked, praising her partner’s skills and character on and off the court. The sentiment was palpable, and the couple’s journey together as teammates continues to capture the attention of basketball fans.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE following the announcement, Fudd reflected on the invaluable advice she has received from her peers, particularly Bueckers. “The biggest takeaway has been to soak this whole weekend in,” she advised, emphasising the significance of the moment. “It only happens once — it’s your moment — so really take it all in, try to take notes, try to learn, and enjoy the moment.”
Fudd’s confidence and authenticity were central themes in her reflection, urging others to remain true to themselves and capitalize on their own abilities while enjoying the experience of being drafted. Her insights not only highlight her maturity at such a young age but also the strong bond between her and Bueckers, who have been partners in both sport and life since publicly revealing their relationship in July 2025.
The duo has garnered admiration since their early days together, having first met at a USA Women’s Under-16 National Team tryout in 2017, where both earned the opportunity to represent their country. Their synergy blossomed not just on the international stage, but also during their college career at UConn, where their chemistry helped lead the Huskies to another prestigious title.
In August 2025, Fudd shed light on Bueckers’ influence, stating how her girlfriend encouraged her decision to join UConn, recognising the unique qualities Bueckers brings to the team dynamic. “Paige is the kind of teammate that everyone wants to play with because she’s so selfless,” noted Fudd. “She gets everyone involved and attracts attention, creating more opportunities for the rest of us.”
Reflecting on their upcoming WNBA journey, Fudd previously discussed the hypothetical scenarios of once again playing alongside Bueckers or even going head-to-head as rivals, illustrating her competitive spirit. “I definitely would love to play with her again; at the same time, I’d love to play against her,” she stated. “I think it’s kind of a win-win. There’s no bad option.”
Bueckers, who was selected as the first overall pick in the previous year’s draft, remains a formidable force in women’s basketball, and the partnership of Fudd and Bueckers with the Dallas Wings promises an exhilarating season ahead. As they prepare to lace up their trainers and take to the court together, both athletes are eager to etch their names further into the annals of WNBA history.
Fans and analysts alike are keenly anticipating the unique dynamic these two bring to Dallas, not only as athletes but as a couple who have demonstrated resilience and dedication in both their professional and personal lives. As they embark on this new chapter, Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers are poised to become one of the most compelling stories in sports, reminding everyone of the power of teamwork, love, and ambition in shaping futures.