The Dallas Wings will hold the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft for the second consecutive year, and national attention has quickly begun centering on UConn guard Azzi Fudd as an emerging favorite.
Women’s basketball legend Rebecca Lobo was one of the first major voices to publicly elevate Fudd’s case. Lobo said the idea of Fudd reuniting with Paige Bueckers in Dallas already has wide appeal.
“First of all, I think the entire state of Connecticut and any UConn Husky fan across the country are thrilled with the notion that Azzi Fudd could potentially rejoin Paige Bueckers down in Dallas,” Lobo said.
She also pointed to why the fit makes sense on the floor.
“I do think she would be a phenomenal fit there,” Lobo said. “Azzi Fudd, because of her ability to score, and the way she can shoot… right away, you can bring in an efficient scorer, and we already know those two… have an incredible connection.”
Following Fudd’s strong showing at the Hall of Fame Women’s Showcase, ESPN’s updated mock draft moved her into the No. 1 slot, citing her efficiency, shooting, and the immediate chemistry she would bring beside Bueckers. Analysts also noted Dallas’ need for perimeter shooting after struggling from three-point range last season.
Curt Miller’s Evaluation Features Optionality and a Clear Need
Inside the franchise, Wings general manager Curt Miller said the pick comes at an important moment for the organization. Miller opened his post-lottery remarks by calling the result a major step forward.
“Huge momentum moment for our franchise,” Miller said. “Exciting times with our young core and new facilities coming on board and a new coach.”
When discussing the overall talent pool, Miller highlighted a notable detail that aligns directly with Fudd. While describing the skill sets available in the class, he referred to “one of the best shooters with one of the fastest releases.” That description fits Fudd cleanly based on her résumé and recent performances.
Miller said the team’s needs and priorities will shift as the offseason progresses.
“After the expansion draft and after free agency, it will all play a part in the decision heading into the collegiate draft,” Miller said. “The optionality that we’re going to have as we approach April is going to be really important for us.”
He added that interest in the pick is already higher than it was a year ago.
“I’ve received more pre-phone calls before people even knew where we would be drafting about this year’s draft than I did all of last year,” Miller said.
Culture, Fit, and the Paige Bueckers Factor
Miller said cultural fit remains a priority as the Wings consider top prospects.
“It all starts with who’s going to be a great teammate,” Miller said. “Culture is important. We want to win in the locker room before we win on the court.”
He also acknowledged the influence Bueckers has on the franchise as it adds talent around her.
“Paige is a magnet,” Miller said. “People want to play with great players.”
With months still remaining before the draft and roster movement still ahead throughout the league, Dallas’ decision remains open. But between Lobo’s endorsement, ESPN’s projection shift, Miller’s emphasis on shooting, and the Bueckers connection, the early draft narrative is already taking shape.
And Azzi Fudd is at the center of it.
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