Azzi Fudd is still learning the ropes in the WNBA, and that includes some lessons about expressing her thoughts about the league.
The Dallas Wings star rookie turned heads with her candid observation of officiating in the WNBA. Following the Wings’ 101-84 win over the Las Vegas Aces in a preseason matchup at Moody Center in Austin, Texas.
“Honestly, I feel more confused,” Fudd told reporters during the postgame press conference. “Like, I thought you could be physical in the W, and anytime you touch someone, it’s a foul. So, I’m not really sure whether to be physical. I’m still figuring that out.”
As Fudd was finishing her statement, her teammates, Jessica Shepherd and Aziaha James, laughed after hearing the rookie speak.
“Yeah, you’re still figuring this out, too, because you may get hit with a fine,” Shepherd said.
Azzi Fudd had her teammates laughing when she was asked about how she’s adjusting to the physicality in the WNBA:
— Melissa Triebwasser (@TheCoachMelissa) May 4, 2026
“Honestly I’m more confused. I thought you could be physical in the W and anytime you touch someone, it’s a foul.”
Jessica Shepherd and Aziaha James joked that she… pic.twitter.com/HfzC7yGNkT
Although Fudd’s comment prompted some to wonder whether she’ll face the WNBA’s wrath in the form of a fine, she appears to have avoided that predicament. She will not be fined, according to Colin Salao of Front Office Sports.
As for the game, Fudd, the top overall pick at the 2026 WNBA Draft, had 12 points on 4/10 shooting with 1 assist in 21 minutes of action against the reigning WNBA champions.
Fudd and the Wings finished the preseason with a 2-0 record and will open their 2026 campaign on Saturday against the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Ind.
