No. 1 Pick Azzi Fudd Is Already Calling Out The WNBA's Referees

Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, hasn't played a regular season game yet. However, she's already confident enough to call out the league's referees.

The top pick out of UConn, who is dating her teammate, Paige Bueckers, called out the WNBA's officiating following a preseason game.

Fudd called out the WNBA's officiating after Sunday's preseason game against the Las Vegas Aces. She made it clear that she is confused by how the league's officials go about calling fouls.

"Honestly, I feel more confused. I thought you could be physical in the W, and anytime you touch someone, it's a foul," Fudd said. "I don't know. I'm still figuring that out."

Fudd's teammates joked with her that a punishment could be coming.

Jessica Shepard, a fellow Dallas Wings player, joked that Fudd is still figuring out press conferences, too. Leagues do not take kindly to players openly criticizing the league's referees.

Fudd is definitely still figuring things out

Fudd was hit with two personal fouls during the matchup, which took place in Austin, at University of Texas' Moody Center.

Her teammates think that a fine could be coming.

"Yeah you're still figuring that out," Shepard said, laughing. "‘Cause you may get hit with a fine."

"We'll see," Aziaha James added.

"Just cut that," Shepard joked, referring to Fudd's comments.

The 2026 WNBA regular season is set to open later this month.

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This story was originally published May 4, 2026 at 10:28 AM.