Fresh off UConn’s NCAA championship win in Tampa, women’s basketball standout Azzi Fudd appeared on Good Morning America Thursday morning. Sporting two of her signature bracelets “resilient” and “purpose” Fudd debuted a third one during the interview: “Champion.”
Head coach Geno Auriemma credited Fudd as the tournament’s most vital player a sentiment reflected in her impressive numbers. She led the team through the Final Four, averaging 21.5 points on 55.6% shooting. Over the whole tournament, she put up 17.5 points and 6.0 steals per game, earning NCAA Most Outstanding Player honors.
“It’s a huge compliment,” Fudd said of Auriemma’s praise. “He doesn’t hand them out easily, so when he says something, you know he means it. That makes it mean even more.”
NBA legend Steph Curry, who’s also a mentor and business partner to Fudd, praised her silky shooting stroke, even admitting he was “jealous” of how good it looked. Fudd reacted modestly: “It feels weird to even say that. His shot is top tier.”
The UConn fanbase continues to rally around Fudd. A sign reading “Fudd around and find out” became an instant hit, and her parents soon showed up in matching t-shirts. Fudd lit up when talking about the moment: “It just makes me smile. My parents are my biggest supporters.”
Fudd’s impact stretches far beyond the court. Kids across the country look up to her and the UConn team, something she doesn’t take lightly. “It’s surreal,” she said. “I used to be one of those kids, looking up to athletes. It’s humbling to now be that person for someone else.”
Despite the whirlwind of celebrations, Fudd is staying grounded. Finals are coming up in two weeks, and she’s already preparing. “Life’s hectic, but that’s how it goes,” she said. “I’ll be watching lectures and writing posts from the car if I have to.”
Fudd also revealed she’s not heading to the WNBA just yet she’ll return to UConn next season. “I’m more excited than ever to come back,” she said. “Another year to learn, grow, and hopefully go back-to-back.”
Before diving back into training, though, Fudd has a well-earned break planned: a cruise with her family in May. “It’s about balance,” she said. “Time to celebrate, then it’s back to work.”
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