UConn’s Azzi Fudd Faces Crucial Season as WNBA Draft Looms

UConn guard Azzi Fudd begins her final NCAA season today with heightened expectations as she aims to solidify her position as a top prospect for the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Fudd, named Most Outstanding Player of last season’s Final Four, is looking to demonstrate her star potential to WNBA franchises after battling injuries throughout her college career. The former Gatorade National Player of the Year has played just 42 games in her first three seasons due to foot and knee issues, but she led the Big East in 3-point percentage last year and scored 24 points in UConn’s national championship victory against South Carolina, ending an eight-year title drought for the Huskies.

The Minnesota Lynx currently hold a 25 percent chance of securing the top overall pick in the 2026 draft, acquired through a trade with the Chicago Sky. This guarantees Minnesota a top-four selection, potentially allowing them to add Fudd to a roster already considered championship-caliber. When asked by ESPN’s Katie Barnes about the possibility of playing for the Lynx, Fudd deftly avoided a direct answer, redirecting the conversation back to a card game. A strong performance this season could significantly impact her draft stock; experts at WNBA.com predict a competitive draft class.

Fudd’s success is particularly important as the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and attract top talent, with increased media coverage and fan engagement. The WNBA and the WNBPA are currently negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement, with the draft lottery date yet to be determined.

Officials say the draft lottery date will be announced once the collective bargaining agreement negotiations are finalized.