Carmelo Anthony Endorses Paige Bueckers-Azzi Fudd Duo for Dallas Wings

NBA legend sees potential in reuniting the UConn teammates in the WNBA

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:41am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the movement and energy of the sport.The potential pairing of Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd on the Dallas Wings could redefine team-building strategies in the WNBA, blending proven chemistry with individual talent.Dallas Today

The upcoming WNBA draft has sparked intense speculation around whether the Dallas Wings should pair Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, her longtime UConn teammate. NBA legend Carmelo Anthony has weighed in, endorsing the idea and highlighting the duo's proven chemistry and basketball IQ. Bueckers herself has expressed enthusiasm about the possibility, raising questions about whether teams should prioritize pre-existing player relationships in the draft.

Why it matters

Drafting players with established chemistry is a rare and potentially revolutionary strategy in professional sports. If the Wings select Fudd, it could signal a shift in how teams approach the draft, focusing not just on individual talent but on proven partnerships that could give them a significant edge on the court.

The details

Bueckers and Fudd have a long history of success together, winning a national championship at UConn. Their on-court synergy and shared basketball IQ are seen as major assets that could translate to the WNBA. Anthony emphasized the value of their four-year track record, noting that their partnership is built on consistency and mutual respect, not just a one-season fluke.

  • Bueckers and Fudd won the NCAA championship together in 2022.
  • The WNBA draft is scheduled for Monday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Paige Bueckers

A standout point guard who played alongside Azzi Fudd at the University of Connecticut, where they won a national championship together in 2022.

Azzi Fudd

A highly touted shooting guard who played with Paige Bueckers at the University of Connecticut, where they won a national championship together in 2022.

Carmelo Anthony

A former NBA player and Hall of Famer who has weighed in on the potential pairing of Bueckers and Fudd on the Dallas Wings.

Dallas Wings

The WNBA team that holds the second overall pick in the 2026 draft and is considering selecting Azzi Fudd to play alongside her former UConn teammate, Paige Bueckers.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.