The WNBA expansion draft and free agency saw a few players changing their franchises, looking to do better for their respective teams. The upcoming WNBA draft, though, will add young talent to the league, changing the dynamics. The Dallas Wings have the first overall pick, and analyst Chiney Ogwumike tried to press the GM for their possible choice. Though she failed to get the name, many predictions show Azzi Fudd as a possible first entrant to the league in 2026.
Fudd also reacted to the possible reunion with Paige Bueckers at the Wings during her March Madness games. Though it was not much of an ‘encouraging’ or ‘confident’ response, NBA Star Carmelo Anthony backs the UConn reunion in his recent analysis on the ‘7 PM In Brooklyn’ Podcast.
Carmelo Anthony Backs Azzi Fudd-Paige Bueckers Reunion
With the depth of the 2026 draft class, many fans are still trying to figure out the possible first overall pick in the WNBA draft. Awa Fam and Olivia Miles are also in the race, along with the Virginia-born guard. NBA star Anthony, though, sees the UConn star as a perfect fit.
“I would do that because it has been proven… it’s been proven over four years,” he said. “They know how to play together, they know how to win. They know each other, so if you could get continuity in the backcourt like that, if it was me, I know my ups and downs, I know me as a person outside of basketball, and now the franchise player is bringing in another potential franchise player.”
"I would pair Azzi up with Paige … it's proven over 4 years."
— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) April 11, 2026
Melo loves the idea of the Wings picking another UConn legend with the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft 👀 pic.twitter.com/Eh4vsJtfw0
The pair won the 2025 NCAA Championship with Bueckers lifting the trophy as a senior and Fudd winning the Most Outstanding Player accolade. Although Geno Auriemma’s side was the favorite in the 2026 season, too, they lost in the Final Four.
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Yet the 5-feet-11 guard was effective, efficient, and consistent on the floor, making her a top contender for the WNBA top pick. The player recently opened up on the same while giving advice to the young girls.
Azzi Fudd Advises Young Girls Ahead Of WNBA Entry
Diana Taurasi mentioned that the star is one of the pure shooters she has ever seen. Her stats back the claim and gave her advice for the budding basketball stars.
Fudd had a simple answer as she said, “I feel like a lot of times, people are so focused on workouts and specific moves and drills instead of just playing free, playing pickup, playing one-on-one and working on your game and your skills.”
Azzi Fudd shares her advice to young girls looking to develop their game:
— UConn Women’s Basketball Videos (@SNYUConn) April 2, 2026
"I feel like a lot of times, people are so focused on workouts and specific moves and drills instead of just playing free, playing pickup, playing one-on-one and working on your game and your skills." pic.twitter.com/p78QSXCIty
The player earned her name as one of the top scorers and three-point shooters, scoring at a quick pace.