WNBA Draft 2026: Azzi Fudd Selected No. 1 Overall by Dallas Wings

The 2026 WNBA Draft delivered a historic milestone as Azzi Fudd became the latest star from UConn Huskies to be selected first overall. The dynamic guard now heads to the Dallas Wings, marking the start of her professional journey with both high expectations and a transformative financial shift—her reported $500,000 earnings package reflecting the league’s evolving economic landscape under the new collective bargaining agreement.

For Fudd, however, the moment was about more than numbers. Surrounded by family and close friends, including Morgan Valley, the experience carried an emotional weight that extended far beyond the stage. “I’m not really sure I have words to describe that feeling,” she said. “I don’t think it’s fully sunk in… Such a surreal feeling.” It was a defining snapshot of a career years in the making—one that now transitions from collegiate dominance to the spotlight of the WNBA.

A UConn reunion in Dallas

Fudd’s selection also sets up a compelling reunion, as she joins former UConn Huskies teammate Paige Bueckers on the Dallas Wings. With back-to-back No. 1 overall picks coming from the same program, UConn now holds a record seven top selections in WNBA history—further cementing its status as a pipeline for elite talent. Bueckers’ presence at the draft underscored the bond between the two, as she was there in person to support Fudd during the milestone moment.

On the court, their chemistry could quickly become a defining factor for Dallas. “Paige is an incredible player, everyone knows that,” Fudd said. “She’s someone that makes playing basketball easy.” That familiarity, built over years of shared experience, gives the Wings a unique advantage—two high-level creators who not only complement each other’s games, but already understand how to operate together under pressure.

LIRE AUSSI

UConn Dominates Villanova to Claim 24th Big East Tournament Title

10 mars 2026

Sylvain Sultat