Wings' Paige Bueckers took all the pressure off Azzi Fudd before WNBA rookie season with genius move originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Paige Bueckers' appearance at the podium on Monday's media day spoke volumes about her character and composure. But her 107-second statement about her relationship with new Dallas Wings teammate Azzi Fudd had another motive behind it.
Amid continued speculation over whether her off-court romance with Fudd convinced Dallas to take the UConn guard first overall in this month's draft, Bueckers attempted to put an end to the discourse with a kind but forceful statement that left no doubt as to why the Wings are so comfortable pairing Fudd and Bueckers as part of an exciting future.
"Azzi Fudd was the number one draft pick because she earned it," Bueckers said. "It had nothing to do me, and everything to do with who she is."
MORE: Azzi Fudd, Paige Bueckers break silence on Wings relationship status
Bueckers explained that she and Fudd have always conducted themselves as professionals, and she expressed some bemusement as to whether the concept of two players on the same team dating is a new one for fans or members of the media.
It isn't new for Bueckers or for Fudd though, who have "countless reps" in terms of separating their off-court relationship with their on-court production.
Paige Bueckers addressed the media today on her relationship with Azzi Fudd and only plans on addressing it once:"I believe me and Azzi's personal relationship is nobody's business but our own. And what we choose to share is completely up to us. pic.twitter.com/OI8uiOqlJ4
Bueckers' decision to take the lead and address her relationship with Fudd head-on leaves only one thing for the rookie to do: go out and hoop.
The Wings drafted Fudd for her generational shooting talent, as well as for her size and defensive ability. She projects as a long-term starter next to Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale in Dallas, where the revamped Wings have their eyes on making the playoffs in 2026.
That is all that matters to Bueckers, not the continued intrigue surrounding her relationship with Fudd -- who was often considered the top prospect in her class prior to the draft.
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