In a vibrant moment for women's basketball and LGBTQ+ representation in sports, Paige Bueckers, the dazzling Dallas Wings guard and 2025 WNBA No. 1 overall draft pick, officially confirmed her romantic relationship with former University of Connecticut (UConn) teammate Azzi Fudd at the WNBA All-Star Orange Carpet event in Indianapolis on July 17, 2025. This public acknowledgment ended months of speculation fueled by subtle social media hints, affectionate appearances, and fan-driven curiosity.
Fans had long speculated that Bueckers and Fudd's bond extended beyond friendship. The clues were everywhere: affectionate photos, matching "A" and "P" necklaces, and notably, a phone case worn by Fudd that boldly read "Paige Bueckers’ girlfriend" during Pride Month. This cheeky confirmation sparked headlines and intensified interest in their relationship. Bueckers, known for her charismatic presence on and off the court, had previously reacted warmly to Fudd’s ESPYs look on social media, further hinting at their closeness.
The defining moment came during the WNBA All-Star Orange Carpet when a fan asked Bueckers, "How well do you know your D1 girlfriend?" Bueckers smiled and responded playfully with "Alright," a subtle but unmistakable nod to their relationship. Later, in an interview with WAG Talk, Bueckers answered a series of questions about Fudd, from her high school to her father's alma mater, passing with flying colors. When asked to reveal her girlfriend's name, Bueckers confidently said, "Azzi Fudd," leaving no room for doubt.
Paige Bueckers, 23, has rapidly become a star in the WNBA, earning All-Star honors in her rookie season with the Dallas Wings. Her rise from a college sensation at UConn to a professional standout has been closely followed by fans and analysts alike. Yet, despite her new life in Dallas, Bueckers has never hidden her deep connection to her former college home and teammates, especially Azzi Fudd.
Azzi Jazlyn Fudd, born November 11, 2002, in Arlington, Virginia, is a remarkable athlete in her own right. She was the 2019 Gatorade National Player of the Year and overcame a serious knee injury in high school to shine at UConn. Averaging 13.6 points per game with an impressive 43.6% shooting accuracy, Fudd played a pivotal role in leading the Huskies to the NCAA championship in April 2025. Her outstanding performance earned her the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award, underscoring her elite status in women's college basketball.
Fudd's journey with Bueckers dates back to their teenage years at a USA Basketball camp, where their friendship first blossomed. Their contrasting personalities—Fudd being quieter and Bueckers more outspoken—complement each other perfectly. As Fudd told CT Insider, "We're similar, but at the same time very different. I'm quieter, she's louder, but we have a lot of the same qualities: our work ethic, our goals." Bueckers even personally recruited Fudd to join UConn as a freshman in 2021, highlighting the depth of their connection.
Throughout the 2024-2025 season, their relationship transitioned from close friendship to a publicly acknowledged romance. They have been spotted holding hands after Dallas Wings road games, sharing cozy selfies in matching outfits, and cheering each other on—Fudd notably wore Bueckers’s No. 5 jersey at a Wings-Mystics game. Fudd was also present for Bueckers’ WNBA Draft night, where the duo’s stylish appearances made headlines, with Fudd’s glam makeover and Bueckers’ striking black cocktail dress stealing the show.
Beyond the court, their relationship has become a beacon of authenticity and visibility in women’s sports. Their openness about their romance, especially in a sport that is progressively embracing LGBTQ+ athletes, sends a powerful message about love, identity, and acceptance. The pair’s social media presence, including viral TikToks featuring trending memes and affectionate moments, has endeared them further to fans and helped normalize queer relationships in high-profile sports settings.
Looking ahead, Azzi Fudd is set to return to UConn for one more collegiate season, aiming to secure back-to-back NCAA championships before entering the 2026 WNBA Draft. Given her trajectory and talent, she is widely expected to be a top-five draft pick, possibly joining Bueckers in the professional ranks. This potential reunion in the WNBA adds an exciting dimension to their story, blending personal and professional aspirations.
Their journey from UConn Huskies teammates to a celebrated couple in the basketball world is more than just a romantic tale—it’s a cultural milestone. As Bueckers and Fudd navigate their careers and relationship in the public eye, they exemplify how sports can be a platform for genuine representation and progressive change.
Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd’s story resonates not only with basketball fans but also with anyone who values authenticity and courage. Their bond, forged through years of shared goals, hard work, and mutual respect, now shines brightly on the national stage, inspiring a new generation of athletes and fans alike.
As the 2025 WNBA season unfolds and the collegiate basketball world anticipates Fudd’s final year at UConn, all eyes will be on this dynamic duo. Their blend of athletic excellence and heartfelt openness continues to captivate and uplift the sports community, proving that love and talent can indeed go hand in hand.
