Azzi Fudd Shines in First Career WNBA Start as Wings Knock Off Aces

The Dallas Wings rookie delivered one of her strongest performances as a pro, and first time starter, helping lead Dallas to a 95-87 victory over the defending champion Las Vegas Aces. The start came amid growing questions surrounding the No. 1 overall pick's early-season role, but Fudd answered them with a poised and efficient performance.

While flashes of her talent had been evident in limited minutes, Fudd had occasionally appeared hesitant offensively, passing up scoring opportunities and still adjusting to the pace of the professional game. Those concerns were nowhere to be found against Las Vegas.

From the opening tip, Fudd played with confidence and composure. Whether attacking off the dribble, spotting up from beyond the arc, or creating space with her movement away from the ball, she looked comfortable in the Wings' starting lineup.

By halftime, Fudd had already contributed nine points, two assists, and a steal while shooting 50 percent from the field. She elevated her play even further after the break.

Fudd scored 13 second-half points, including eight in the third quarter as Dallas erupted for 27 points to erase a deficit and pull even with Las Vegas at 72-72 entering the final period. Her timely scoring helped fuel the comeback, and she continued to deliver in winning time.

With just over four minutes remaining, Fudd buried a corner three-pointer that helped extend the Wings' lead and put additional pressure on the Aces. Dallas maintained control down the stretch to secure one of its most impressive wins of the season.

Fudd finished with 22 points on 60 percent shooting while adding three rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block. Perhaps most impressive, the rookie committed zero turnovers throughout the contest.

The performance came just days after Fudd scored a career-high 24 points and knocked down six three-pointers in a victory over New York. Together, the two outings showcased the offensive versatility and shot-making ability that made her one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory.

Defensively, there were still expected growing pains. Fudd occasionally struggled navigating assignments against veteran guards Chelsea Gray and Jackie Young and had moments where she lost positioning in coverage. However, those are common adjustments for rookies transitioning to the WNBA and should improve with experience.

More importantly for Dallas, Fudd looked every bit like a player capable of handling a larger role. Her calm demeanor, efficient scoring, and ability to impact winning basketball provided a glimpse of what the future could look like for the Wings.

If Thursday's performance was any indication, Fudd may have done enough to make her place in the starting lineup a permanent one.