The world of women’s college basketball and the WNBA has seen many iconic duos, but few have captured the public’s imagination like the Azzi Fudd relationship with her former teammate, Paige Bueckers. While fans spent years speculating about the deep bond between these two UConn Huskies stars, 2025 marked the year that rumours finally transformed into a celebrated public reality. Their journey is one of mutual support, shared championships, and a transition from being the nation’s top recruits to becoming one of the most talked-about couples in professional sports today.
Azzi Fudd: Biography & Key Facts
| Full Name | Azzi Jazlyn Fudd |
| Date of Birth | November 11, 2002 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 23 Years Old |
| Place of Birth | Fairfax, Virginia |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Position | Shooting Guard |
| College Team | UConn Huskies (#35) |
| High School | St. John’s College HS (Washington, D.C.) |
| Parents | Katie Smrcka-Duffy Fudd & Tim Fudd |
| Relationship Status | In a Relationship (Confirmed June/July 2025) |
| Partner | Paige Bueckers (WNBA, Dallas Wings) |
| Major Achievements | NCAA Champion (2025), NCAA Tournament MOP (2025) |
The Spark of the Azzi Fudd Relationship at UConn
The foundation of the Azzi Fudd relationship was laid long before they ever stepped onto the hardwood at the University of Connecticut. Both were elite prospects, with Azzi Fudd being the No. 1 recruit in the class of 2021 and Paige Bueckers holding that same honor for the class of 2020. Their friendship flourished through USA Basketball and summer camps, leading Paige to famously campaign with the hashtag #GetAzziToUconn. When Fudd finally committed to the Huskies on November 11, 2020, it wasn’t just a win for the program; it was the start of a legendary partnership.
Early Rumours and Social Media Clues
For several seasons, the Azzi Fudd relationship was a topic of intense fan theories on platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter). Supporters noticed subtle clues that suggested their “sisterhood” might be something deeper. From wearing matching athleisure outfits to sporting personalized necklaces with the initials “A” and “P,” the pair was rarely seen apart. One of the most significant early indicators was a viral video showing Azzi Fudd wearing a heart-shaped ring—traditionally an Irish Claddagh ring—turned inward, which traditionally signifies that the wearer is in a committed relationship.
The Viral Phone Case Moment
The speculation surrounding the Azzi Fudd relationship reached a fever pitch in June 2025. While the two were enjoying the offseason, Fudd posted a selfie that featured her custom phone case. Sharp-eyed fans quickly zoomed in to see the text: “Paige Bueckers’ girlfriend.” This “soft launch” sent social media into a frenzy, as it was the most direct acknowledgment of their romantic status to date. While some wondered if it was a lighthearted prank between best friends, the consistent public appearances that followed suggested a much more serious connection.
The Official 2025 Relationship Confirmation
The Azzi Fudd relationship was officially “hard launched” during the 2025 WNBA All-Star weekend in Indianapolis. On July 17, 2025, while walking the “Orange Carpet,” Paige Bueckers participated in a Q&A session where she was asked, “How well do you know your D1 girlfriend?” Without hesitation, the Dallas Wings star answered a series of trivia questions about Fudd’s career and family before explicitly naming Azzi Fudd as her partner. This moment provided the definitive confirmation that millions of fans had been waiting for, cementing their status as a high-profile couple.
Supporting Each Other Through Injuries
One of the most touching aspects of the Azzi Fudd relationship is how they have anchored one another through significant personal hardships. Both athletes have faced devastating ACL injuries and long rehabilitation processes. When Fudd suffered a season-ending knee injury in late 2023, Bueckers was her most vocal supporter. Conversely, Fudd was by Paige’s side during her own recovery periods. This shared experience of overcoming physical setbacks has clearly strengthened their bond, proving that their connection is built on a foundation of resilience and genuine empathy.
The 2025 National Championship Victory
Before Paige Bueckers transitioned to the WNBA, the duo achieved the ultimate collegiate goal. In April 2025, the UConn Huskies secured a national championship, with Fudd scoring 24 points in the final game against South Carolina. During the post-game celebrations, the Azzi Fudd relationship was on full display. Fudd expressed that the team’s primary motivation was to win the title for Paige in her final season. The images of them celebrating on the court with the trophy became an iconic representation of their shared success and deep mutual respect.
Transitioning to a Long-Distance Romance
As Paige Bueckers was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings in the 2025 WNBA Draft, the Azzi Fudd relationship entered a new phase. Fudd, who chose to return to UConn for a final redshirt senior season, remained in Connecticut while Paige moved to Texas. Despite the distance, the couple remained active in supporting one another. Fudd was frequently spotted in the stands at Wings games wearing Paige’s jersey, and the two continued to share snippets of their lives together through FaceTime and social media “photo dumps.”
Public Appearances and Red Carpet Glamour
The Azzi Fudd relationship has also become a focal point for fashion enthusiasts. At the 2025 ESPY Awards, the couple turned heads on the red carpet. Fudd wore a stunning flowy black gown, while Bueckers opted for a sparkly tailored suit. Their coordinated looks and affectionate interactions during the event were widely covered by sports and lifestyle media. Fans appreciated their willingness to be authentic in the public eye, noting that they represent a new era of visibility and openness for LGBTQ+ athletes in professional basketball.
Navigating Breakup Rumors in Late 2025
Like any high-profile pair, the Azzi Fudd relationship has faced its share of public scrutiny. In October 2025, rumors of a potential breakup began to circulate after Fudd was noticeably absent from Paige’s 23rd birthday social media posts. The “radio silence” between the two for several weeks led to intense speculation. However, these rumors were quieted when Bueckers was seen in the crowd at UConn’s season opener in November, rooting for Fudd as she scored 20 points against Louisville. It became clear that while they may value more privacy, they remain supportive.
Azzi Fudd’s Future in the WNBA
As we look toward the 2026 WNBA Draft, the Azzi Fudd relationship might soon be reunited in the professional ranks. Fudd is widely projected to be a top-five pick, and many fans are dreaming of a scenario where she might join the Dallas Wings alongside Bueckers. Regardless of where she is drafted, Fudd’s elite shooting ability—highlighted by her becoming the 10th player in UConn history to reach 250 career three-pointers in February 2026—ensures that she will be a star in her own right. Their professional paths seem destined to cross frequently.
The Impact on Women’s Basketball Culture
The openness of the Azzi Fudd relationship has had a ripple effect across the sport. By being transparent about their romance, Fudd and Bueckers have provided a roadmap for younger athletes to embrace their identities while excelling at the highest levels of competition. They have managed to balance their individual “superstar” personas with their identity as a couple, never allowing their personal lives to overshadow their incredible work ethic or their commitment to their respective teams and the growth of the WNBA.
Shared Milestones and Personal Growth
Beyond the basketball court, the Azzi Fudd relationship is characterized by shared personal milestones. They have spent holidays with each other’s families, including Fudd joining the Bueckers family on cruises and vacations. This integration into each other’s personal lives suggests a level of maturity and long-term commitment. As they both navigate the pressures of being world-class athletes and public figures, having a partner who understands the unique demands of their lifestyle has been an invaluable asset for both Azzi and Paige.
Conclusion: A Bond Beyond the Court
In conclusion, the Azzi Fudd relationship is more than just a tabloid headline; it is a story of two generational talents who found a unique connection through their shared passion for basketball. From their early days as teenage rivals to their 2025 confirmation as a couple, they have handled their journey with grace and authenticity. As Azzi Fudd prepares for her professional debut and Paige Bueckers continues her dominance in the WNBA, fans will undoubtedly continue to follow this power couple as they redefine success on and off the court.
FAQs About the Azzi Fudd Relationship
1. When did Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers confirm their relationship?
The couple officially confirmed their relationship in July 2025 during the WNBA All-Star weekend, though “soft launch” clues appeared as early as June 2025.
2. Are Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers still together?
As of early 2026, they remain supportive of one another. Despite brief breakup rumors in late 2025 due to social media silence, their public support at games indicates they are still close.
3. Did Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers play together at UConn?
Yes, they played together at UConn from 2021 through 2025, culminating in a national championship victory in April 2025.
4. What was the “phone case” incident in the Azzi Fudd relationship?
In June 2025, Azzi Fudd went viral for a selfie featuring a phone case that explicitly said “Paige Bueckers’ girlfriend,” which fans took as a confirmation of their status.
5. Will Azzi Fudd join Paige Bueckers in the WNBA?
Azzi Fudd is expected to enter the 2026 WNBA Draft. While her team is not yet determined, she is projected to be a top pick, potentially joining the same league as Paige.
6. How did the couple handle their injuries together?
Both athletes have supported each other through ACL recoveries, often being the first to call or visit each other after surgeries and during the rehabilitation process.
