The Dallas Wings opened their 2026 campaign with a statement victory over the Indiana Fever, but the buzz around the team isn't just about the win. Fans are already voicing unease about the role of rookie guard and No. 1 overall pick Azzi Fudd.
Fudd, who came off the bench in the season opener, logged 18 minutes but attempted only two shots, finishing with three points, one rebound, and a steal. The limited involvement has sparked questions about her fit within the Wings' backcourt, especially given the high expectations that come with being the top selection.
“Azzi Fudd is one of the best shooters in our game today,” said Wings executive vice president and general manager Curt Miller. “She has a lightning-quick release and her movement off the ball is elite.” Miller praised her defense, unselfishness, and basketball IQ, but those qualities weren't on full display Saturday.
The Wings leaned heavily on their established stars. Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, and Odyssey Sims combined for 62 points on 36 shot attempts, dominating the offensive flow. That left little room for the rookie to make an impact, and fans quickly took notice on social media.
“Why is a #1 pick coming off the bench tho? If they didn’t need a guard why draft her,” one fan posted. Others echoed the sentiment, with one saying, “They have to find a way to involve her. She looked good on defense though.” Another fan compared Fudd unfavorably to guard Aziaha James, while a fourth wrote, “You’d think Azzi is a second rounder the way her team has ignored her today.”
Of course, it's early days. The Wings are 1-0, and Fudd's college résumé at UConn includes a national title and All-Big East honors. She averaged 14.7 points and 2.1 assists per game, showing she can be a dynamic scorer. But the transition to the pros often requires patience, and the Wings' deep backcourt may need time to adjust.
Fudd's situation is reminiscent of other top picks who initially struggled to find their rhythm. The Wings will face the Atlanta Dream on Tuesday, offering another chance for Fudd to show what she can do. Fans will be watching closely to see if the coaching staff expands her role.
For now, the concerns are real but not yet alarming. The Wings have a win and a talented rookie who needs more touches. The next game could provide a clearer picture of whether Fudd's debut was an outlier or a sign of things to come.
