Following her groundbreaking victory as the first rookie to win the WNBA 3-Point Contest, Dallas Wings guard Azzi Fudd publicly issued a challenge to NBA superstar Stephen Curry for a shooting rematch. Fudd's call for a new competition brings to mind their initial encounter at Curry's SC30 Select Camp in 2018, where she, then a 15-year-old high school talent, first showcased her impressive long-range accuracy.
Fudd's recent triumph at Wintrust Arena saw her dominate the final round, securing 30 out of a possible 40 points to overcome Bridget Carleton of the Portland Fire. Her stellar performance included sinking all five balls on her first rack and converting eight of her last ten attempts, demonstrating the sharp-shooting skills that led her to a national championship with UConn in 2025 and her selection as the No. 1 overall pick by the Wings. This challenge also echoes Curry's successful 2024 showdown against New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu, where he claimed a championship belt after defeating her 26-point performance with his own 29 points.
The possibility of Fudd and Curry facing off again in 2027 during the NBA All-Star Weekend in Phoenix creates an exciting prospect for basketball fans. While Fudd has expressed her eagerness to defend her title if invited, the decision ultimately rests with the league and Curry. Regardless of a potential rematch, Fudd's rookie season statistics—averaging 13.2 points, 1.9 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, with a 45.7% field goal percentage and leading all rookies with 53 three-pointers—underscore her rising prominence in professional basketball.
Azzi Fudd's challenge to Stephen Curry transcends individual achievement, symbolizing the growing recognition and respect for women's basketball. Her bold move not only highlights her exceptional talent but also fosters a spirit of healthy competition between leagues, inspiring athletes and fans alike to celebrate skill and dedication regardless of gender. This pursuit of excellence, coupled with a desire for engaging contests, enriches the sport and strengthens its community.
