Wings rookie Azzi Fudd set to make first WNBA start; Alanna Smith out

Dallas Wings rookie guard Azzi Fudd will start Thursday night’s game against the Las Vegas Aces, marking her first WNBA start. Head coach Jose Fernandez confirmed the decision, stating that Fudd was always intended to begin the game, regardless of other players' health. The Wings have faced injuries ahead of the match, with Alanna Smith ruled out due to illness and Maddy Siegrist stepping in to replace her. Arike Ogunbowale, initially listed as questionable, was upgraded to available after a pregame workout. Fudd’s selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft was reinforced by her career-best 24-point performance in the Wings’ 91-76 win over the New York Liberty on May 24. She made five of her six three-pointers in the third quarter, setting a rookie record for most three-pointers in a single quarter in WNBA history. Fernandez praised her confidence, noting that her ability to create shots and involve teammates has improved steadily. Fudd began the season as a bench player after starting both preseason games, sparking discussions about her role. She has since increased her usage, averaging 11.0 points, 1.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 23.8 minutes per game off the bench. Her minutes have grown game by game, and Fernandez acknowledged that her recent performance justified a starting role. ‘I’m really proud of her,’ Fernandez said after her standout performance against the Liberty, where she played a career-high 32 minutes. Teammate Paige Bueckers described Fudd’s progress as inevitable, emphasizing the time it takes for rookies to adjust. ‘It takes time as a rookie to get your legs under you,’ Bueckers said, adding that the Wings expected her breakout moment. Fernandez also highlighted Fudd’s vision and ability to generate offense, calling her increased minutes a positive sign for the team’s future. With Smith out and Ogunbowale available, the Wings’ starting lineup will feature Paige Bueckers, Fudd, Ogunbowale, Jessica Shepard, and Siegrist. Fernandez’s decision to start Fudd reflects confidence in her development, positioning her as a key player for the Wings moving forward.