Wings Coach Gives Honest Assessment of Azzi Fudd's Game in Loss to Lynx

Dallas Wings head coach Jose Fernandez is starting to like what he sees from rookie Azzi Fudd.

The 2026 No. 1 overall pick returned to action Thursday after missing Tuesday's matchup against the Atlanta Dream. She sat out due to a knee injury.

Fudd came off the bench as the first guard in the rotation, logging 20 minutes against the Minnesota Lynx.

The 23-year-old contributed eight points on an efficient 4-of-7 shooting clip in a competitive effort. The Wings came up short at College Park Center, falling 90-86 to Minnesota.

After the game, Fernandez gave honest thoughts on Fudd's resolve.

"I thought she had a good game," Fernandez said of Fudd, via Moreau Sports Media Prod Co. on X. "She played, what, 19, 20 minutes? For someone that hasn't practiced the last couple days, it was good and we're easing her into her being a bigger part in getting more minutes."

Fudd was limited to just three points in 18 minutes off the bench in her WNBA debut against the Indiana Fever.

The same bothersome knee then forced her out of the second game as a precautionary measure. She was cleared for action and made her home debut against the Lynx on Wednesday.

Despite the injury, the former UConn star showed glimpses of her true potential. She demonstrated promise with strong mid-range shooting.

Fudd also went head-to-head with this year's second overall pick, Olivia Miles. The Lynx guard posted 15 points and six assists.

Growing pains are expected for any rookie, even a top pick. The knee issue has only made the adjustment trickier.

Still, Fernandez believes Fudd will soon catch on. He expects her to get comfortable at the pro level and become a key contributor for the Wings this season.

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This story was originally published May 15, 2026 at 3:30 AM.