Azzi Fudd: Staying Grounded as the WNBA Draft Looms
PHOENIX – UConn guard Azzi Fudd is keenly aware that the WNBA draft is fast approaching, coinciding with the end of her collegiate season. However, rather than dwelling on the potential of being the number one pick, Fudd expressed her commitment to fully embracing her remaining time with the Huskies.
“My goal all year has been to stay present,” Fudd shared during a media session before UConn’s Final Four matchup against South Carolina. “I’ve had four years to observe upperclassmen navigate this process and enter the draft, and it’s easy to get caught up in what’s next. But this is my final year in college, my last moments with this team, and I recognize how special this program, these people, and these coaches are. I want to cherish every aspect of this year.”
The WNBA draft is scheduled for April 13th in New York City, where Fudd is anticipated to be a prominent figure. If selected as the first overall pick, she would continue UConn’s recent success, following Paige Bueckers, who was chosen first by the Dallas Wings last year. Interestingly, the Wings hold the number one pick again, potentially reuniting Fudd and Bueckers as teammates.
A Stellar Senior Season
Fudd has demonstrably elevated her performance during her senior year, leading the Huskies to an impressive 38-0 record. She’s averaging 17.5 points per game with a remarkable 45.5% shooting accuracy from the three-point line. Her outstanding performance at the 2025 Final Four earned her the title of Most Outstanding Player, a feat that boosted her confidence for a remarkable All-American senior season.
However, the job isn’t finished. UConn enters their game against South Carolina with aspirations of securing consecutive national championships and completing an undefeated season. Despite the pressure to maintain UConn’s winning tradition – currently on a 54-game streak – Fudd insists the team doesn’t dwell on it.
“Throughout the season, it wasn’t about avoiding a loss or preserving the streak,” Fudd explained. “It was always about the next game, how we could improve, and how we could win. We focused on the game itself, the present moment, and ourselves, rather than external noise, expectations, or pressures. Ultimately, focusing on those distractions leads to defeat. Leaning on each other, striving for improvement, and continuous development have been our priorities.”
Addressing the Critics
Fudd also addressed criticisms questioning the strength of UConn’s schedule, particularly within the Big East conference. Some analysts suggested UCLA deserved the number one overall seed, citing a more challenging non-conference schedule and a greater number of Quad 1 wins.
“People always have something to talk about,” Fudd responded. “And when a team has a history of success like ours, there are always those who are hoping for a downfall. They enjoy the narrative of the underdog winning. They like to ask those kinds of questions.”
As Azzi Fudd and the UConn Huskies prepare for a crucial game, her focus remains firmly on the present, a testament to her maturity and dedication. The WNBA draft may be on the horizon, but for now, she’s determined to make the most of her final moments as a Husky.
You can find more information about the WNBA draft and UConn Women’s Basketball at WNBA.com and UConn Women’s Basketball.
