The Dallas Wings had a solid start to the season with a win over the Indiana Fever. While the veterans shone in the game against the Indiana team, all eyes were on top pick Azzi Fudd’s contribution and participation in the game. She played in 18 minutes and had just two attempts in the game.
While Curt Miller revealed that the Dallas Wings’ 2026 rotation is built around Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, and Fudd, her limited game time was confusing. Coach Jose Fernandez cleared the ambiguity.
Jose Fernandez Talks About Azzi Fudd’s Starting Role
As the first overall pick from the deep 2026 draft class, everyone expected the former UConn star to get into the starting lineup straightaway. She came in late, played just 18 minutes, and scored three points with a range shot. She was not part of the final clutch moments, either, leaving questions about her possible impact on the lineup.
But Coach Fernandez showed trust in her and said, “I don’t think about it that way. Is she capable of doing that? Yes, she is … When it does happen, I think she’ll be ready.”
Jose Fernandez on if he wants Azzi Fudd to join the starting lineup at some point this season, via @DrakeKeeler:
— Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA) May 11, 2026
"I don’t think about it that way. Is she capable of doing that? Yes, she is … When it does happen, I think she'll be ready."
The coach added that she needs to take more shots and added, “The other thing, when she gets in and she’s a shooter, I gotta get her more involved, get her some looks, but you got to give other teams credit too. Other teams prepare for really good players.”
Scroll to continue reading
Trending WNBA News
It’s important to note that Fudd impressed everyone in the training session, including her teammates and coach. While other rookies like Olivia Miles and Flau’Jae Johnson had massive debut games, the first overall pick has some catching up to do early in the season.
Sadly, though, there was more concerning news around Fudd’s next steps, and fans might have to wait more for her ‘full-fledged’ involvement.
Azzi Fudd Questionable For Game Against Atlanta Dream
After a strong performance against the Indiana team, the Wings will face another competitive team, the Atlanta Dream, which also recorded a close win on the opening night. For the game, the WNBA downgraded Fudd from healthy to “questionable,” as she popped up on its injury report ahead of the game.
Azzi Fudd (knee) probable for Tuesday.
— Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA) May 11, 2026
The player struggled with her knee issue in both high school and college with the UConn Huskies, and it is troubling her again. Even if she gets fit by the gameday, she will have to come off the bench and will be on a minutes restriction.