Azzi Fudd, the talented UConn guard, recently shared the incredible story of how Paige Bueckers convinced her to join the legendary UConn women’s basketball program. Fudd, who joined the Huskies in 2021, had already established herself as one of the top high school players in the country, but the recruitment process was far from ordinary. Instead of the usual calls and texts, Bueckers took a far more personal and creative approach in persuading Fudd to make the decision to commit to UConn.

Fudd was deeply impressed by Bueckers’ dedication to making sure she felt welcomed and excited about joining the program. “I was amazed by the effort Paige put into convincing me to join UConn,” Fudd said. “It wasn’t just about basketball; it was about showing me how I would fit into their system and how she could help me get to the next level.” As a freshman in 2021, Fudd had already seen the tremendous success that Bueckers had experienced in her first year with the Huskies, and she knew that playing alongside someone of Bueckers’ caliber could only benefit her growth as a player.

The recruiting pitch that Bueckers gave Fudd was a memorable one. Rather than simply telling Fudd about the team’s potential or listing out the program’s strengths, Bueckers went above and beyond to show her future teammate exactly how they would mesh together on the court. Fudd recalls a specific moment during the recruitment process that left a lasting impact on her. “She actually made this one video on, I think, Huddle of her high school highlights,” Fudd said. “It was a video of her passing to people, showing what she would do to help me if I joined the team.”

In this video, Bueckers didn’t just highlight her scoring abilities but emphasized how she would facilitate Fudd’s game by getting her open shots and helping her shine. Fudd remembered the moment vividly, noting how Bueckers went the extra mile by sharing the video with her family. “She showed it to my family, and she sat down and airdropped it to the TV. It was like, ‘This is what I’ll be doing for Azzi. These are all the passes I’ll get her if she comes to UConn next year. She’ll get all these open shots.’” The effort that Bueckers put into the video was something Fudd had never experienced in her recruiting process before. “I’m just shaking my head, and my parents are laughing. It’s a Paige moment,” she said with a smile, reflecting on how unique and personalized the entire experience was.

That moment spoke volumes to Fudd about the type of player and leader Bueckers was. Bueckers, who was already a superstar for UConn, was not only focused on her own development but also on how she could elevate her teammates. For Fudd, it was a sign of how UConn was not just a team, but a family where the players supported and helped each other to succeed.

Fudd’s decision to join UConn was not just based on her friendship with Bueckers or the opportunity to play alongside one of the best in the game. It was also about the undeniable appeal of UConn’s legendary women’s basketball program. UConn has a long history of success, winning numerous national championships and producing some of the most iconic players in the history of women’s basketball. With head coach Geno Auriemma at the helm, the Huskies are consistently among the top teams in the nation, and their program has produced a long list of WNBA stars. Fudd knew that committing to UConn meant committing to a culture of excellence, a winning mentality, and a relentless drive to improve. It was an opportunity to compete at the highest level and further develop her skills alongside some of the best athletes in the country.

Since arriving at UConn in 2021, Fudd has continued to showcase her impressive skills on the court. She quickly made a name for herself, earning a spot on the Big East All-Freshman team in 2022. The Olympic gold medalist has made a significant impact during her time with the Huskies, playing a key role in UConn’s success. As of the current season, Fudd is averaging 8.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while shooting an impressive 45.5% from the field. Her shooting ability and overall game continue to improve, and she’s become a vital part of UConn’s backcourt.

While Fudd’s individual accomplishments are impressive, it’s her connection with Bueckers and the rest of the team that has helped her thrive. Their partnership on the court has been something special, with Bueckers’ playmaking ability complementing Fudd’s scoring prowess. Fudd credits much of her development to the mentorship she’s received from Bueckers and other players within the program. “Playing with Paige has been amazing. She’s a great leader and a great teammate, and I’ve learned so much from her,” Fudd said. The chemistry between the two players is undeniable, and it’s clear that their bond extends beyond just basketball. Off the court, they support each other and help push one another to get better every day.

Fudd’s journey to UConn was not just about joining a championship-caliber program. It was about finding a place where she could grow as a player, build lasting relationships with her teammates, and play for something greater than herself. The recruiting pitch from Bueckers was just one example of the type of support and commitment that defines the UConn women’s basketball program. It was about more than just basketball—it was about creating a family atmosphere where every player has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

As the season progresses, Fudd continues to prove herself as a key player for UConn. Her shooting ability, court vision, and defensive tenacity make her a formidable presence on the floor. Her partnership with Bueckers has become one of the most exciting duos in women’s basketball, and their shared experience of growing together as players and leaders has been a major factor in the Huskies’ continued success. With the mentorship of Bueckers and the guidance of Coach Auriemma, Fudd’s future at UConn looks incredibly bright, and she’s poised to make an even greater impact as her career unfolds.

The UConn women’s basketball team is known for its dominance, and players like Fudd are key to maintaining that tradition. Her dedication to improving, combined with the support she receives from her teammates and coaches, ensures that UConn will remain one of the top programs in the nation for years to come. As Fudd continues to develop, it’s clear that she’s not just a product of the UConn system, but also someone who will leave her mark on the program for years to come.

Fudd’s story is a testament to the power of personal connections in the recruiting process. While many players are drawn to UConn for its winning tradition and the opportunity to play for a legendary coach, Fudd’s experience shows how meaningful relationships with teammates, like the one she shares with Bueckers, can play a crucial role in a player’s decision. Bueckers didn’t just recruit Fudd; she took the time to make Fudd feel like she was already part of the UConn family, and that personal touch made all the difference.

As Fudd continues to grow and develop at UConn, her partnership with Bueckers will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the next chapter in the storied history of UConn women’s basketball. Together, they are a force to be reckoned with, and their combined talent, leadership, and commitment to the game will help propel UConn to even greater heights in the seasons to come. For Fudd, the decision to join UConn was about more than just basketball—it was about joining a legacy, building lifelong relationships, and becoming part of something bigger than herself. The impact of that choice is already evident, and the best is yet to come.