In a landmark event at the 2026 WNBA Draft in New York City, two prominent former UConn women’s basketball players, Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers, were brought back together on the same team, the Dallas Wings. This reunion is particularly noteworthy as Fudd, a former NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, was selected as the first overall pick, joining her partner and current WNBA Rookie of the Year, Paige Bueckers. The shared journey of these two athletes from college champions to professional teammates has captivated fans, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in their careers.
The evening was filled with emotion as Azzi Fudd, a highly decorated All-American guard, heard her name called as the top selection. Her former UConn teammates, including Paige Bueckers, were present to celebrate this significant milestone. Bueckers, who had previously confirmed her relationship with Fudd, beamed with pride from the crowd as Fudd expressed her excitement about reuniting with her on the court. This heartwarming scene underscored the personal and professional connection between the two stars.
Beyond the personal narrative, this draft made history in two distinct ways. It marked the first instance where college teammates were chosen as the No. 1 overall pick in consecutive WNBA drafts. Furthermore, it was the second time that two players from UConn had been selected first overall in back-to-back years, highlighting the consistent dominance of the Huskies' program in producing elite talent for the professional league.
Basketball enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to witness Fudd and Bueckers play together once more. Their first joint appearance is scheduled for Thursday, April 30, when the Dallas Wings will face off against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Just nine days later, on Saturday, May 9, the duo will commence their regular season together, once again squaring off against the Fever. The prospect of seeing these two dynamic players collaborate again promises thrilling matchups and a renewed pursuit of championships.
The drafting of Azzi Fudd by the Dallas Wings not only creates an exciting on-court pairing with Paige Bueckers but also adds a compelling storyline to the upcoming WNBA season. Their shared history, both as teammates and a couple, brings a unique dimension to the league. This historic draft moment signifies a new era for both players and the Dallas Wings, as they aim to leverage their combined talent and chemistry to achieve significant success.
