Azzi Fudd was quiet in her Dallas Wings debut on Saturday. The No. 1 overall pick of the 2026 WNBA Draft managed just three points, one rebound and a steal in 18 minutes off the bench as the Wings defeated Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever in their season-opener, 107-104.
Fudd, however, was sidelined for Tuesday’s game against the Dallas Wings. The 5-foot-11 guard was forced to sit out due to a knee injury. With Fudd out of commission, Dallas suffered its first loss of the season, 77-72.
The good news for the Wings is that Fudd was cleared to play for Thursday’s matchup against the Minnesota Lynx. She spoke to reporters ahead of tipoff and provided an encouraging update on her knee.
“Yeah, the knee feels great. I’m excited to play tonight,” Fudd said, via Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal.
Dallas Wings guards Azzi Fudd (35) and Paige Bueckers (5).Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Fudd is making her home debut at College Park Center on Thursday. Their season-opener against the Fever was on the road, and the rookie sat out Tuesday’s first home game against the Dream.
Fudd expressed her excitement to play in front of the home crowd as she marks a major milestone in her Wings career.
It is important to note, however, that head coach Jose Fernandez said before the game that they will watch Fudd’s “feel and flow” closely. She will not have a minutes restriction, but the last thing the coaching staff wants right now is for the former UConn Huskies star to aggravate her knee injury.
Fudd looked great in the first half. She seemed more comfortable compared to the Fever game and has been more aggressive in finding her spots. The 23-year-old had six points in 11 minutes played.
As of writing, the Wings are up 48-40 at halftime.
Related: Dallas Wings Congratulate Azzi Fudd Over Major Career Achievement
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
