The Dallas Wings are sitting on a goldmine of talent, boasting the last two number one overall WNBA picks on their roster: Paige Bueckers (2025) and Azzi Fudd (2026). After opening their season with a win over the Indiana Fever on Saturday, all eyes were on how these two stars would mesh—especially with Fudd coming off the bench.

For a number one pick, coming off the bench is almost unheard of, and Fudd’s limited impact only raised eyebrows. In 18 minutes of play, she managed just three points on two shots, a stat line that has sparked serious concerns about her development and confidence.

Former WNBA star Chiney Ogwumike didn’t mince words when discussing the situation on ESPN. "You have the number one pick, and the last thing you want is for her not to feel completely confident," Ogwumike said. "Azzi Fudd is the best shooter we’ve seen in a long time—she’s a pure shooter. You don’t want to create that lack of confidence in your number one pick." She added, "Playing 17 minutes and only shooting the ball twice is something that should never happen with your number one pick. She needs to have the opportunity to create her own destiny."

The fit in Dallas has been a hot topic since the draft. With Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale already commanding the guard spots, plus high-level contributors like Odyssey Sims, finding minutes for Fudd was always going to be a challenge. But one Fox Sports radio analyst, Dan Beyer, took it a step further, suggesting Fudd’s selection wasn’t about basketball fit at all. "Can we just admit Azzi Fudd went number one because she’s in a relationship with Paige Bueckers?" Beyer asked on air.

Whether it’s chemistry on the court or off it, the Wings have a delicate balancing act ahead. For now, the focus remains on getting Fudd the touches she needs to thrive—because a number one pick with untapped potential is a luxury no team can afford to waste.