The Dallas Wings, with the back-to-back first overall picks, are set to take on the league and are looking to ‘continue’ with the tradition of top pick rookies getting the ‘things’ done for the side. The Aces and Storm teams benefited from their back-to-back top picks, and the Wings will be looking to achieve similar success with Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd.
GM Curt Miller also cleared plans about the rotations around Bueckers, Fudd, and Ogunbowale in the 2026 season. While Bueckers showcased her capabilities in the 2025 season, winning the Rookie of the Year award, all eyes are now on the 2026 top pick.
Jose Fernandez Praises Azzi Fudd
With the new player, the franchise also has a new coach, Jose Fernadez, who earlier mentioned his plans with Bueckers in the upcoming season. While Fernandez listed a number of qualities that make Bueckers a top player, he also liked his first training session with the 22-year-old rookie.
“She’s been great four days in. Coachable. Does the right things. Invest in her body. Takes care of her body. She’s in here early. She’s really embraced the playbook. I’m looking forward to coaching her,” Fernandez said.
Coach Jose Fernandez on needing Azzi Fudd’s 3-point shooting and what stands out about her after the fourth day of camp #WingsUp 💙🪽 pic.twitter.com/smyUPC9n1O
— Azzi Fudd Report (@AzziReport) April 23, 2026
Interestingly, the player was first hesitant to shoot the ball, but the coach gave her confidence. During her first practice, head coach Jose Fernandez reportedly had to yell at Fudd to “shoot the damn ball” as she kept on passing the ball. Now the player found her rhythm and was making the right decisions, which pleased the coach.
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Apart from the coach, the rookie had to adjust to the seniors in the team, although she already has a great connection with PB in the team. But they also praised the new entrant, calling her a perfect fit.
Azzi Fudd Impresses Her Dallas Wings Teammates
During her interview, the 2026 rookie spoke about her excitement to play with established stars in the Wings roster, and now she is their favorite one, with her skills impressing them on the floor.
Maddy Seigrist, the star who was a ‘lucky charm for the wings at the lottery draft, helping the side get Fudd in the lineup, was the first to speak about the rookie. “Playing with Paige (Bueckers) last year, I got to see that. I played against Azzi (Fudd), but I hadn’t played with her until the last few days, which has been great,” Seigrist said. “She’s been a great addition. Anyone who can shoot the ball that efficiently has a spot in this league.”
Azzi Fudd getting shots up after practice… pic.twitter.com/1JnBJtKIZD
— Landon Thomas (@sixfivelando) April 24, 2026
“On the court, it’s just watching her IQ. Yes, everyone knows she’s an amazing shooter, but I think something that’s underrated is her off-ball movement,” three-time champion and free agency addition Alyssha Clark said.
With Coach and players on her side, the People’s Princess will find it easier to navigate through the tough rookie season.