After spending the first few weeks of the WNBA season adjusting to the jump from college to the professional level, Azzi Fudd is finding her stride with the Dallas Wings. In fact, if Jose Fernandez's comments are any indication, Fudd is putting the skills she gained at UConn to good use.
"Her size and her defensive pressure really changes things," Fernandez told reporters of Fudd after the team's 93-92 win over the Chicago Sky Saturday night. As Fernandez also pointed out, a lot of people only seem concerned with how many points Fudd scores in a night, but she's a well-rounded player who is bringing a lot every single game.
(For the record, Fudd is averaging 12.7 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists so far this season.)
Azzi Fudd has always been a great defender
Fudd was known for her defensive prowess as a UConn Husky. While she was definitely known for her three point shooting, Fudd often displayed a versatility as a defender that was a direct result of having the opportunity to spend five seasons with the program. Earlier this year, reports indicated she recorded 18 steals while pursuing a national title with the Huskies in 2025 — a record only bested by Alexis Hornbuckle (with 21) and Niele Ivey (with 20). Others in the same group include Candace Parker, Angel Reese, Marina Mabrey, and Sydney Colson.
Those skills were on full display against the Sky. Fudd had no problem preventing Kamilla Cardoso from landing a three early in the night, and later blocked another three pointer from Natasha Cloud in the third quarter. Fudd is also a very fast lateral defender, something that allows her to grab steals.
Fudd's skills are especially impactful considering how poor the Wings' defense was in the 2025 season. While it's fair to acknowledge that last year's Wings team suffered across the board (defense was hardly their only issue), the team has shown a marked improvement this season. Fudd currently leads the team in steals and blocks, and is showing no sign of slowing down with either.
Though the Wings are likely still celebrating last night's unexpected and hard-fought win, they also have a tough schedule coming up. The team will travel to Seattle on Monday to meet the Storm, then to Las Vegas on Thursday, June 25, to meet the Aces. They will return home to host the Minnesota Lynx on June 28.
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