Azzi Fudd is No. 1 WNBA Draft Pick, Joins UConn Teammate in Dallas

Azzi Fudd was the first overall pick in the 2026 WNBA draft, a historic $500,000 rookie contract. She will play alongside former UConn teammate Paige Bueckers in Dallas.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

Azzi Fudd was selected first overall in the 2026 WNBA draft, a choice that places her with the Dallas Wings. This move reunites her with former UConn teammate Paige Bueckers, who was also a No. 1 selection in the previous year's draft. Fudd's selection marks the seventh time a UConn player has been chosen as the top pick, a league record.

The Dallas Wings have prioritized continuity and offensive firepower with their top pick, aiming to build around the established dynamic between Fudd and Bueckers.

Fudd's professional journey begins with a significant financial commitment, with reports indicating a salary of approximately $500,000, a historic figure for a WNBA rookie. Her arrival is seen as a direct solution to the Wings' need for strong guard play, particularly complementing Bueckers' playmaking abilities. Fudd's elite shooting is expected to address a notable weakness in the Dallas roster.

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Draft Day Selections and Roster Implications

The Wings' decision to select Fudd followed the recent signings of Alanna Smith and Jessica Shepard, bolstering their roster with established talent. This strategic accumulation of players suggests a clear vision for the team's composition, emphasizing familiarity, shooting proficiency, and star power.

Other notable draft selections include:

  • Iyana Martín Carrión (Spanish guard) taken by Portland with their first-ever pick.

  • Olivia Miles (TCU guard) selected at No. 2 by Minnesota.

  • Awa Fam Thiam (Spanish phenom) chosen by Seattle at No. 3.

  • Lauren Betts (UCLA center) went to the Washington Mystics at No. 4.

  • Gabriela Jaquez (UCLA guard) landed with the Chicago Sky at No. 5.

  • Kiki Rice (UConn teammate) was the first pick for the expansion Toronto Tempo, going at No. 6.

Fudd's immediate professional transition will commence with the opening of training camp on April 19. The team is scheduled to make a Connecticut homecoming on July 2, facing the Connecticut Sun at PeoplesBank Arena in Hartford.

Background and UConn's Draft Legacy

Fudd's collegiate career at UConn was marked by success, including leading the Huskies to a Final Four appearance with a 38-1 record in her redshirt senior season. This period represented her healthiest and most productive year. The Huskies' consistent production of top draft picks underscores the program's historical dominance in producing elite talent. Fudd joins a distinguished list of UConn alumni who have achieved significant success in the WNBA, boasting a combined 14 championships, five MVP awards, and 46 All-Star selections among them.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was the No. 1 pick in the 2026 WNBA draft and where will she play?
Azzi Fudd was selected first overall in the 2026 WNBA draft. She will play for the Dallas Wings, reuniting with her former UConn teammate Paige Bueckers.
Q: How much is Azzi Fudd's rookie contract worth?
Azzi Fudd's rookie contract is reportedly worth around $500,000, which is a historic amount for a WNBA rookie.
Q: Why did the Dallas Wings draft Azzi Fudd?
The Dallas Wings drafted Azzi Fudd to add strong guard play and elite shooting to their roster, complementing Paige Bueckers' abilities.
Q: When does Azzi Fudd start training camp?
Azzi Fudd will begin training camp with the Dallas Wings on April 19.
Q: What is UConn's history in the WNBA draft?
Azzi Fudd is the seventh UConn player to be chosen as the top pick in the WNBA draft, a league record. UConn alumni have won 14 championships and 5 MVP awards in the WNBA.