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via Imago

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Whether they’re both on the court, one’s sidelined, or neither is playing, Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers have always had each other’s backs. “I feel like it’s been incredibly special just to have those moments with her,” Fudd expressed. And that bond hasn’t faded one bit, even with Bueckers now in the pros. Just take her recent appearance at the Target Center, where she came up just to support the No. 1 overall pick. But, while she came up to add another chapter to their book of memories, she ended up getting one surprise for herself!

When UConn’s standout made it to the arena, it almost felt like Bueckers had brought a little star power of her own. And she delivered. Despite shooting just 3 of 11 from the field, #5 of the Wings tallied 12 points and 10 assists—her first double-double as a WNBA player. And luckily, Fudd was right there to witness the milestone. But that wasn’t the only unforgettable moment Fudd had before leaving the arena.

Her game night visit turned into an impromptu fan event at halftime. The moment fans spotted her, they lined up—hoping for a photo or an autograph from the UConn combo guard.

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“That is the line of people at Target Center,” said an amused commentator. And honestly, that reaction wasn’t exaggerated. It wasn’t just four or five fans—the line stretched to over 30 people, with more stepping down from their seats to join in.

 

Yes, that’s the kind of love Minnesota has for a player who hasn’t even joined the W yet. Especially in a city with one of the most WNBA-savvy and passionate fan bases. It’s the legacy the Lynx have built—one that includes four WNBA championships from 2011 to 2017, led by icons like Maya Moore.

UConn holds a special place in the hearts of Minnesota fans because of that very legacy. Players like Moore and Napheesa Collier helped build a bridge between Storrs and the Twin Cities. And now, Bueckers—Minnesota’s hometown hero—is supercharging that connection even more. Just think back to her season opener against the Lynx at College Park Center—it was a sellout, drawing a packed crowd of 7,000 fans.

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Azzi Fudd's star power: Is she the next big thing in women's basketball?

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So yes, it makes perfect sense why Minnesota fans couldn’t pass up the chance to meet Fudd, a rising star and a face they’re hoping to see in the W soon.

Yet to Debut, but Azzi Fudd is already ruling the social media game!

There’s no doubt about it—Azzi Fudd’s talent makes her a dream pick for any WNBA team. Her stats prove it all. Fresh off an NCAA tournament run where she averaged 17.5 points and a jaw-dropping 6.0 steals per game. She didn’t just show up—she showed out, earning the title of Most Outstanding Player.

But what really sets Fudd apart goes beyond the hardwood. She’s built a strong personal brand, especially on social media. Notably, she’s got over 432,000 followers each on TikTok and Instagram, and more than 6.7 million likes on TikTok alone.

Whether it’s behind-the-scenes content or dancing in sneakers, she knows how to engage. Well, this kind of attention isn’t new for her. When UConn rolled into the Final Four this past season, Fudd was right there taking photos and sharing laughs with supporters.

And just weeks later, in April 2025, she and teammate KK Arnold were spotted at a Raising Cane’s in Enfield, Connecticut, meeting fans and soaking in the energy of the UConn faithful. She clearly gets how to draw attention—and more importantly, how to make it count.

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So when she showed up at the 2025 WNBA Draft to support her longtime friend Paige Bueckers, it wasn’t just a sweet gesture—it was a moment. Fans couldn’t get enough of her, and media outlets were buzzing about her draft-night look. One headline even declared she “won the backcourt battle for best dressed,” stealing the spotlight from some of the draftees themselves. Her mix of style and substance has her well on the path to becoming a cultural icon.

And yet, she’s not showing any signs of slowing down! This July, Fudd will host her annual basketball camp, Hooping for a Cure, in Washington, D.C. Focused on both skill development and community connection, the camp reflects her commitment to giving back.

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So now you see why it all makes perfect sense—why she’s capturing massive attention even without officially declaring for the WNBA Draft.

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Azzi Fudd's star power: Is she the next big thing in women's basketball?

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