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Paige Bueckers has become the talk of the WNBA-not just for her eye-catching stats as a rookie for the Dallas Wings, but for the intrigue that follows her every move away from the court.
Averaging 18.2 points and 5.5 assists per game, Bueckers has lived up to her reputation as one of the game’s top young stars. Yet, it is her close bond with former UConn teammate Azzi Fudd that is sparking just as many headlines as her basketball exploits.
Bueckers and Fudd have been nearly inseparable since their college days at UConn, where they thrilled fans with their playmaking and tight friendship.
This season, that friendship has taken center stage in the WNBA spotlight, especially after a series of moments that have kept the rumor mill churning. The two have been affectionately dubbed “Pazzi” by fans, a nod to their chemistry both on and off the court.
The latest round of speculation began after Bueckers signed a poster reading “Azzi Fudd’s Girlfriend” for a fan. The moment exploded on social media, with many interpreting it as a playful nod to their rumored relationship.
Fudd was there in Phoenix for the game, and cameras caught the two holding hands after the final whistle.
The whispers grew louder when Fudd later posted a picture of herself with Bueckers, complete with a heart-shaped emoji next to Bueckers‘ name and her hand resting on Paige’s shoulder.
Bueckers fueled the mystery by reposting the story with her own cryptic message: “Love when a former teammate joins me,” punctuated by a smiling heart emoji.
Was it a cheeky joke or a deeper admission? For now, Bueckers seems content to let the speculation swirl.
From UConn best friends to the WNBA’s most-watched duo?
This is not the first time the two have made headlines together. Fudd‘s social media presence has only added to the buzz.
A few days before the poster signing, Fudd posted a salon mirror selfie where the real star was her phone case-emblazoned with the words “Paige Bueckers’ Girlfriend.”
Fans went into overdrive, dissecting every detail. Shortly after, Fudd swapped the case for a plain pink one, fueling even more conversation about their dynamic.
What is clear is the deep bond the two share, forged during their time at UConn. Bueckers played an instrumental role in recruiting Fudd to join the Huskies, and the two have been frequent collaborators on TikTok, appeared together in national ads, and weathered the challenges of the pandemic side by side.
Now, with Fudd set for one more collegiate season, WNBA fans are already dreaming of a future where both star for the Dallas Wings-especially if the team’s struggles put them in position to draft Fudd.
Bueckers blazing her own trail as a rookie star
While her off-court life draws headlines, Bueckers‘ impact on the floor cannot be overstated.
Drafted first overall, she has quickly established herself as a centerpiece for the Wings, earning a spot as an All-Star starter alongside fellow rookies Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron.
Bueckers is one of only two rookies in WNBA history-alongside Caitlin Clark-to average at least 15 points and 5 assists in her first 15 games, according to Polymarket Hoops.
She currently leads Clark in scoring while posting fewer turnovers, showcasing maturity and composure well beyond her years.
Her popularity is skyrocketing, too: Bueckers set a new rookie record for All-Star votes, outpacing even Clark‘s impressive total from a year ago. With honors like Rookie of the Month already in hand, Bueckers‘ star is only rising.
Whatever the truth may be about her relationship with Fudd, one thing is certain-Paige Bueckers is captivating the league, on and off the court.
The narrative surrounding her and Fudd continues to fascinate fans, and with her level of play and public intrigue both showing no sign of slowing down, the Paige Bueckers phenomenon is only just beginning.
Whether they are destined to become the WNBA’s next legendary duo or simply two all-world talents with a remarkable bond, the fascination is sure to grow with every game.
This news was originally published on this post .
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