The WNBA season is underway, and one rookie’s debut has already made headlines. Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 overall pick, had a debut game to forget, setting a new record for the lowest score by a top pick in their first WNBA appearance.
Fudd’s Underwhelming Debut
The Dallas Wings faced the Indiana Fever in a match featuring the four most recent No. 1 overall picks. While the Wings secured a 107-104 victory, the focus was on Azzi Fudd’s performance. Playing 18 minutes off the bench, Fudd managed just three points.
This marks the lowest-scoring debut for any No. 1 overall pick in WNBA history. Wings coach Jose Fernandez offered encouragement after the game, urging Fudd to continue working hard, acknowledging it’s only her first year and that the team has talented backcourt players.
Context of the Wings’ Selection
The Wings’ decision to draft Fudd at No. 1 overall was met with some controversy. Questions arose about whether her personal relationship with teammate Paige Bueckers influenced the selection. Bueckers addressed these concerns, stating that Fudd earned the No. 1 pick due to her own merits as a player and person.
The Dallas backcourt is stacked with talent. It features Bueckers, last year’s top draft pick, Aziaha James, a No. 12 overall pick, four-time All-Star Arike Ogunbowale, and starting guard Odyssey Sims.
Historical Comparison
Before Fudd, Kelsey Plum held the record for the lowest-scoring debut by a No. 1 pick, with four points in 2017. Despite that slow start, Plum went on to have a successful career.
Plum earned All-Rookie team honours that year. She has since been named to four All-Star teams and won two championships with the Aces.
The WNBA season continues, and Fudd will be looking to improve on her debut performance as she adjusts to the league.