In Tampa, Florida, UConn’s Azzi Fudd showcased her talent and resilience, playing a crucial role in her team’s latest victory. Fudd, fresh off a season plagued by injuries, was named the Most Outstanding Player after leading the Huskies to their 12th national championship with a powerful performance in the title game against South Carolina. She scored 24 points, helping secure an impressive 82-59 win.
Last season was a tough one for Fudd as she dealt with a torn meniscus and ACL injury, which kept her on the sidelines during the Final Four. Watching her team lose to Iowa was a hard moment for her. But this year, Fudd stepped back onto the court with renewed determination, scoring 19 points in the semifinals against UCLA to help her team advance.
Against the defending champions, Fudd delivered a standout performance, hitting 9 of 17 shots, contributing five rebounds, three steals, and an assist. Her impressive scoring surge included 11 points in the third quarter, a remarkable achievement for a UConn women’s basketball player in an NCAA championship game.
“Our mindset was to stay aggressive and together,” Fudd commented after the game. “I just did what the game allowed me to do.”
In the stands cheering her on were her parents, who proudly supported her with t-shirts proclaiming “FUDD AROUND AND FIND OUT.” Fudd expressed gratitude towards her family for their unwavering support, acknowledging their role in her basketball journey.
While Fudd was the star, she was not alone in her efforts. Teammate Sarah Strong also shined, scoring 24 points and grabbing 15 rebounds, while Paige Bueckers added 17 points in her final game for UConn.
Fudd’s journey back to health was marked by support from her teammates, coaching staff, and family. Having only played two games last season, she bounced back and posted impressive statistics this year, averaging 13.3 points with a shooting percentage of 47.2% and a 3-point rate of 44.6%.
Underlining her importance to the team, UConn coach Geno Auriemma emphasized Fudd’s role in their championship hopes, noting that her performance was key to their success in the tournament. While Bueckers heads to the WNBA, Fudd is set to return for another year at UConn, looking to continue her impact and lead her team to further triumphs.
