Dallas Wings Eye Azzi Fudd as No. 1 Pick in 2026 WNBA Draft

The Dallas Wings are considering a significant move as they hold the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. Much speculation surrounds whether the team will select Azzi Fudd, the standout guard from the UConn Huskies. Fudd’s popularity in college basketball, combined with her previous partnership with Paige Bueckers, adds an intriguing layer to the decision-making process.

Bueckers, who was the Wings’ first pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and won the 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year Award, has a strong connection with Fudd. Their collaboration at UConn culminated in a national championship in 2025, showcasing their potential synergy on the court. The prospect of reuniting these two talented players in the professional arena captivates fans and analysts alike.

The choice of whether to draft Fudd could ultimately fall to new head coach Jose Fernandez, appointed earlier this year. While he will not make the final selection, his coaching philosophy and team strategy will likely play a pivotal role in the decision. Fernandez recently discussed his scouting trip to UConn during a guest appearance on the December 19 episode of No Offseason: The Athletic Women’s Basketball Show.

During his visit, Fernandez spent three days observing Fudd and the Huskies, including their matchup against Ohio State. He emphasized the importance of understanding the dynamics of the team and sought insights from UConn head coach Geno Auriemma.

Fernandez reflected on his time with Auriemma, stating, “I just ran into all of them in Connecticut, which was very good to be able to do that. One of my visits was to go see a young lady that everybody’s talking about as a prospective draft pick.” He further elaborated on their discussions regarding Bueckers’ role and how it might evolve within the team, particularly in terms of her handling the ball and executing plays.

The mention of Fudd by Fernandez has sparked excitement among Wings supporters, who hope that she will join Bueckers in Dallas. Both players have demonstrated their effectiveness when playing together at UConn, making the potential reunion appealing not just for the team but also for the fanbase.

As the 2026 WNBA Draft approaches, the Wings will weigh their options carefully. Selecting Fudd could not only enhance the team’s performance but also create a narrative that resonates deeply with fans, uniting two celebrated athletes under one banner. The decision will likely be influenced by Fernandez’s vision for the team’s future and his assessment of how Fudd fits into that plan.

With the draft set for April 2026, the anticipation surrounding the Wings’ choice continues to grow. Fans will be watching closely to see if the team takes the opportunity to bring Fudd to Dallas, potentially setting the stage for a new chapter in the Wings’ history.