A New Dynamic in Dallas

Following her selection as the top overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, Azzi Fudd’s transition to the Dallas Wings has been a major talking point, primarily due to her reunion with former UConn teammate Paige Bueckers. While the basketball implications of their backcourt partnership are significant, the media’s focus shifted toward their personal lives during Fudd's first official press conference with local reporters this Thursday.


PR Intervention During Press Briefing

The situation escalated when Kevin Sherrington, a reporter for the Dallas Morning News, attempted to address the relationship, which the two players had made public via social media last July. Sherrington asked if the pair was still a couple and whether they had sought advice from other WNBA players on balancing a romantic partnership while playing on the same team.


Before Fudd could respond, a representative from the Dallas Wings’ public relations department stepped in to halt the line of questioning:

“I understand why you have to ask that question, but we’re going to respectfully decline from commenting on players’ personal lives.”

Precedent in the WNBA

While the Wings appear determined to keep the focus on basketball, the topic remains a point of interest given the history of romantic relationships within the league. Several high-profile players have navigated similar dynamics, including:

  • Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley, who maintained privacy until their 2018 marriage.
  • Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner, who have been open about their partnership.
  • Diana Taurasi and Penny Taylor, who were private about their relationship during their playing days.
  • Natasha Cloud and Isabelle Harrison, who dated prior to becoming teammates.

Past instances, such as the relationship between former Wings players NaLyssa Smith and DiJonai Carrington, have shown how personal dynamics can coincide with roster changes and professional shifts. As training camp kicks off this Sunday and the regular season approaches on May 8, it remains to be seen whether the media will continue to pursue the topic or if the team’s firm stance will effectively close the conversation.