ARLINGTON — The Dallas Wings' home opener at College Park Center was supposed to be a celebration. Instead, it's left fans with more questions than answers about the team's newest star.
Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, was ruled out just hours before tip-off Tuesday night due to a right knee injury. The rookie guard had already raised eyebrows in the season opener against Indiana, playing only 18 minutes while scoring three points on two shot attempts.
The timing is concerning. Fudd was listed as probable on Monday's injury report, making Tuesday's late scratch all the more puzzling. When pressed for details, Wings head coach Jose Fernandez kept things close to the vest.
"I'm not going to discuss anything medically in regards to her," Fernandez said pregame, a response that sparked a tense exchange with reporters. "Out of an abundance of caution and her long-term health, we're keeping her out tonight."
The caution is understandable given Fudd's medical history. The UConn product has suffered two significant injuries to her right knee: a torn ACL and MCL in 2019, followed by a torn ACL and medial meniscus in 2023. Both came during her college career, which included a run to the Final Four.
Fernandez wouldn't say whether Tuesday's injury was related to her limited minutes against the Fever, but he emphasized the bigger picture. "She's a big part of this team. There's a reason why we drafted her No. 1, and she's going to have a great season for the Wings."
The coach added that he had a "very good" phone call with Fudd on his way to the arena, noting, "It's a long season. She just finished playing a long season, and we have to put her in the best position to be successful."
Interestingly, the Wings are taking a different approach with their other star rookie. Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 pick in 2025, also came off a national championship season at UConn before joining the WNBA. She's been a full go to start the season.
For now, the Wings are keeping Fudd's status under wraps, leaving fans to wonder when they'll see their top pick back on the court. One thing is clear: Dallas is playing the long game with their prized rookie.