UConn basketball Star Azzi Fudd Talks About What it is Like playing for the Storied Program Without Paige Bueckers Around.

UConn basketball Star Azzi Fudd Talks About What it is Like playing for the Storied Program Without Paige Bueckers Around.

 

 

STORRS, Conn. — For UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd, the pressure of carrying one of college basketball’s most storied programs has never felt more real. With fellow superstar Paige Bueckers sidelined once again due to injury, Fudd finds herself not only as the team’s top scoring option, but also its emotional and vocal leader.

“It’s definitely different without Paige,” Fudd said in a recent interview. “She brings so much energy and leadership, even beyond what she does on the court. Not having her out there means we all have to step up in ways we didn’t before.”

Bueckers, the 2021 national player of the year and face of UConn women’s basketball, has faced a series of injuries throughout her collegiate career. Her absence this season has been felt deeply—by fans, teammates, and head coach Geno Auriemma alike. But in her absence, the Huskies have turned to Fudd, the former No. 1 high school recruit who now finds herself in the spotlight more than ever.

Fudd, known for her smooth shooting and calm demeanor, admits that playing without her close friend and backcourt partner has come with both challenges and unexpected growth.

“When Paige is on the court, she just makes everything easier. Her passing, her vision—it opens the floor for all of us,” Fudd said. “Without her, I’ve had to be more aggressive, more vocal, and take on responsibilities I might not have if she were healthy.”

The duo formed a dynamic pairing when healthy, with Bueckers orchestrating the offense and Fudd lighting it up from deep. Off the court, the two share a close friendship, which makes the absence even more personal.

“We’re super close, so not having her out there is tough,” Fudd said. “But she’s still involved every day—talking to us in practice, giving advice. She’s still leading, just in a different way.”

Despite dealing with her own injury setbacks in past seasons, Fudd has embraced her role as the team’s focal point. Through the first stretch of the season, she’s averaged over 18 points per game and has been a consistent presence on both ends of the floor.

“She’s growing up fast,” Auriemma said after a recent win. “Azzi’s had to take on a lot, but that’s what great players do. They find a way to adapt and lead.”

While the Huskies continue their pursuit of another Final Four appearance, Fudd is keeping her focus on the present—and on helping her teammates rise to the moment.

“This program is about more than one player,” Fudd said. “It’s about tradition, toughness, and trust in each other. I’m just trying to carry that forward, for Paige and for all of us.”

As UConn battles through a season filled with challenges, one thing is clear: Azzi Fudd is ready to write her own chapter in the Huskies’ legendary history.