Dallas Wings Draft UConn’s Azzi Fudd First in 2026 WNBA Draft

In a landmark event on April 13, 2026, Azzi Fudd, the standout player from UConn, was selected as the first overall pick in the WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. This selection comes with a lucrative contract worth $500,000.

Azzi Fudd’s Journey to the Dallas Wings

Fudd expressed her emotional reaction to the draft. “I’m not really sure I have words to describe that feeling,” she stated, reflecting on the surreal experience of being chosen.

Fudd will reunite with her former UConn teammate, Paige Bueckers, who was the top pick in the previous draft. “Paige is an incredible player,” Fudd noted, emphasizing the ease of playing alongside her.

Record-Breaking Draft Highlights

This year’s draft included several notable selections:

• Number two pick: Olivia Miles of TCU, who previously transferred from Notre Dame.
• Number three pick: Awa Fam Thiam, a center from Spain.
• Number four pick: Lauren Betts from UCLA, standing at 6-foot-7.
• Number five pick: Gabriela Jaquez, also from UCLA.

UCLA made history by breaking UConn’s previous record of four players drafted in the first round, showcasing their remarkable talent this season.

Financial Implications of the New CBA

Under the newly ratified collective bargaining agreement, rookie salaries saw significant increases. Alongside Fudd’s contract, the second pick, Miles, will receive an estimated salary of $466,913, while the third pick is set to earn $436,016.

The new agreement has brought substantial financial benefits to players, with second and third-round picks making $270,000—higher than the previous maximum under the old agreement.

Other Notable Draftees

Additional noteworthy selections include:

• Kiki Rice from UCLA who was selected sixth by Toronto, the expansion franchise.
• Gianna Kneepkens who was the last pick in the first round by Connecticut.
• Flau’jae Johnson, drafted eighth by Golden State, before being traded to Seattle.

This year’s draft not only highlights talent from UConn and UCLA but also sets notable precedents in player salaries and opportunities within the league.

Conclusion

Azzi Fudd’s selection as the first overall pick is a significant milestone in her career and for the WNBA. With her skills and the support of her former teammates, Fudd is poised to make a considerable impact on the Dallas Wings as they aim for future success.