By Jalon DixonShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe Dallas Wings are back on the clock with the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA draft for the second straight year, and early projections point toward a storyline almost too perfect to ignore.
UConn star Azzi Fudd, one of the nation’s most efficient scorers, is emerging as the early favorite to join last year’s top selection and reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year, Paige Bueckers in Dallas.
Fudd’s Strong Start Elevated Her Draft Stock
...More News: Reclassified 5-Star Recruit Drawing Interest From Kentucky, Duke
Mock drafts from ESPN’s Michael Voepel and other analysts consistently highlight Fudd as the most polished offensive prospect in the 2026 class.
The senior guard is off to a blistering start, averaging 21.0 points per game on 51.1% shooting overall and an eye-popping 54.8% from deep. Her 55-point weekend against Michigan and Utah underscored the blend of shot-making, efficiency, and composure that made her a centerpiece of UConn’s national championship run last season.
The concern, being her injury history, hasn’t slowed interest. As long as she stays healthy, Fudd profiles as a plug-and-play WNBA scorer who stretches the floor and elevates any backcourt she joins.
The Chance to Reunite and Dallas’ Draft Dilemma
...The potential reunion with Bueckers adds fuel to the conversation.
The pair not only won a national title together, but they’ve also been open about their relationship, making their on-court chemistry one of the most compelling storylines of the upcoming draft cycle. For a Wings team trying to build a sustainable playoff core, pairing two elite, complementary guards has obvious appeal.
Still, Dallas has decisions to make. The Wings need shooting depth, but center remains a long-term concern. UCLA’s Lauren Betts and Spanish standout Awa Fam are both viable No. 1 options depending on how free agency unfolds. Arike Ogunbowale’s future, Li Yueru’s status, and the direction of the frontcourt could all shift the equation.MORE: Texas Lands Two Top-10 Recruits to Secure No. 1 Class in 2026
But right now, Fudd is playing at a level that makes passing on her difficult. She’s scoring efficiently, shooting confidently, and showing the polish expected from a top pick. If she maintains this pace against tougher competition later in the season, the momentum behind her candidacy will only grow.
For the second year in a row, Dallas holds the first big decision of draft season. And if early projections hold, the Wings could soon be reuniting one of college basketball’s most dynamic duos on a WNBA floor.
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