Azzi Fudd delivered a standout performance, hitting a crucial 3-pointer from the top of the key in the first half of UConn’s Final Four matchup against UCLA. As the shot swished through the net, UConn’s head coach Geno Auriemma raised his arms in celebration, signaling the start of what would become Fudd’s most impressive offensive half of the women’s NCAA Tournament.
Fudd, making her first national semifinal appearance since 2022 (due to injuries sidelining her during UConn’s previous Final Four run), was unstoppable. She scored all 19 of her points in the first half—almost outscoring UCLA’s entire team, which managed just 22 points during that span. UConn dominated the game, finishing with an 85-51 victory, setting up a championship clash against defending champion South Carolina.
Reflecting on her performance, Fudd shared, “Tonight was a lot of fun. It was so hard watching last year. I was trying to be the biggest supporter, but all you want to do is be on the court with them and contribute. So tonight I just wanted to have fun, and that’s exactly what I got to do.”
Fudd’s journey back to form this season has been remarkable. After tearing the medial meniscus and ACL in her right knee in November 2023, she underwent an extensive rehab process. Her recovery was supported by a team of trainers, including those connected to four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, who collaborated with UConn’s medical staff to establish performance benchmarks.
Despite playing only two games in the 2023-24 season, Fudd averaged 13.1 points per game with career-best shooting stats—46.8% from the field and 44.1% from beyond the arc, both leading the Big East. She maintained consistent performance throughout the tournament, with standout games like her 27-point, seven-assist, and six-steal effort against Arkansas State in the first round.
Even in a less-than-ideal performance against Southern California in the Elite Eight, where she scored eight points on 3-of-14 shooting, Fudd bounced back with resilience. “I left that in Spokane,” she said. “Tampa was a new me. It’s March, it’s the Final Four. You can’t carry any of that with you. Every game, every quarter, every possession is new.”
Fudd’s aggressive approach paid off against UCLA, as she opened the game with a steal and a layup, followed by three 3-pointers. Her presence has been transformative for UConn, with the team boasting a 67-8 record in games she plays, 30-1 when she hits at least three 3-pointers, and 25-1 when she scores 15 or more points.
UConn star senior Paige Bueckers praised Fudd’s determination, saying, “Azzi has worked her butt off to get to this point. She’s faced so much adversity, all the ups and downs. But she’s here, shining on this stage, playing her best basketball. Seeing her smile, full of joy, and loose on the court—it’s incredibly rewarding.”
