In a stunning turn of events, UConn star Azzi Fudd has announced her decision to return for the 2025-26 college basketball season rather than declaring for the WNBA Draft. After four impactful seasons with the Huskies, Fudd aims to refine her skills and maximize her potential before making the leap to the professional level.
Head coach Geno Auriemma played a significant role in Fudd's decision, advising her against leaving at this stage. He emphasized that she has yet to showcase her full capabilities, stating, "He said, 'I would say 10 games, maybe, you've played to your full potential of who Azzi Fudd really is and so you wouldn't do yourself justice leaving.'" Fudd acknowledged the truth in Auriemma's words, recognizing that staying another year could benefit her development.
The significance of Fudd's return cannot be overstated, especially with the recent departure of star guard Paige Bueckers to the WNBA. As a fifth-year guard, Fudd is expected to step into a leadership role, guiding a team that has high hopes for the upcoming season. With Bueckers gone, Fudd will have the opportunity to lead the Huskies and help them contend for a national championship.
Fudd's stats reflect her talent and potential. Over her career at UConn, she has played a total of 74 games, averaging 13.1 points per game. In the 2024-25 season, she appeared in 32 games, contributing 13.1 points per game with an impressive 44.1% shooting percentage from three-point range. However, her journey has not been without challenges. Fudd has faced multiple injuries, including a torn ACL in November 2023, which impacted her overall game time.
Despite these setbacks, Fudd's passion for the game and her commitment to her team remain strong. She stated, "With a full year ahead of me, expectations are high for my performance and contribution to the Huskies’ championship aspirations. This year will be crucial for me following the injuries that affected my previous seasons."
Fudd's decision to stay at UConn is not just about basketball; it also ties into her financial future. The NCAA's recent changes in name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights have opened up lucrative opportunities for student-athletes. Fudd is already one of the most marketable athletes in college sports, with endorsement deals that rival those of professional players. From her historic deal with Curry Brand to partnerships with major brands like Buick and Chipotle, Fudd's NIL portfolio reflects her status as a cultural icon.
As she prepares for her final collegiate season, Fudd will focus on developing her game and maintaining her health. The upcoming season is crucial not only for her personal growth but also for her potential draft stock. With the chance to showcase her skills in a leadership role, Fudd's performance could significantly impact her future in professional basketball.
Fudd's journey began at St. John's College High School in Washington, D.C., where she established herself as a top recruit. Averaging an astounding 26.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game as a sophomore, she led her team to a near-perfect record and a DCSAA tournament title. Her performances earned her the Gatorade National Girls Basketball Player of the Year award, making her a highly sought-after prospect.
However, her path to success has been fraught with challenges. In April 2019, Fudd suffered a devastating injury, tearing both her ACL and MCL during a national tournament. This setback required two surgeries and months of rehabilitation. Despite the difficulties, Fudd returned to the court in January 2020, continuing to dominate even while recovering from her injuries.
Throughout her college career, Fudd has battled various injuries, including a foot injury that caused her to miss 11 games in her freshman year and another knee injury that sidelined her for 22 games the following season. In her junior year, she tore her knee again during a November practice, limiting her to just two games. Nevertheless, Fudd's resilience has shone through, and she has proven to be a key contributor to the Huskies' success.
Since the 2021-22 season, Fudd has been a vital part of UConn's backcourt, helping the team make deep runs in the NCAA tournament. The Huskies have reached the Final Four seven times since their last title in 2016, and fans are hopeful that 2025 could be the year they finally reclaim the championship. Fudd's leadership and scoring ability will be crucial in achieving this goal.
In summary, Azzi Fudd's decision to stay at UConn for another season is driven by her desire for personal growth, team leadership, and the potential for a significant financial impact. With her talent and determination, she is poised to make a lasting impression in her final collegiate season, and fans are eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for this remarkable athlete.
