Geno Auriemma has watched Azzi Fudd go through the highs and lows of college hoops. He is also keeping an eye on the trajectory of the former UConn star as she makes her mark in the WNBA as a rookie.
On Tuesday, the Huskies coach called the game between the Dallas Wings and New York Liberty, two teams that are bannered by products of his UConn program. As the Wings looked to finish off the Liberty in the final minute of regulation, Auriemma commended Fudd for adapting to the pro game over the past two months.
“there’s so much pressure on the no. 1 pick. people expect you to come in and immediately transform the franchise. it’s just not that easy… She’s adjusted tremendously…Her work ethic is second to none. There are very few people I’ve ever coached that work harder than Azzi Fudd…She has a routine, she stays with it, and it’s the same every single day.”
The Wings ended up winning 88-77, with Fudd contributing 12 points, three assists, and two steals. Paige Bueckers, another Auriemma protege who was taken No. 1 in the WNBA draft, chipped in with 15 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.
On the Liberty side, yet another UConn great in Breanna Stewart led all scorers with 29 points on 10-for-16 shooting from the field. Despite Stewart’s consistency on offense, the Liberty have now lost two straight regular-season games to the Wings.
Auriemma, of course, has taught players like Fudd, Bueckers, and Stewart to deal with wins and losses alike. If anything, the impressive numbers by all three of these former Huskies are a tribute to the coach that helped them become successful pros.
Viral Clip Shows Geno Auriemma Sharing a Lighthearted Moment With Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers
Prior to the game, Geno Auriemma found time to reconnect with Azzi Fudd and Paige Bueckers. Bueckers asked Auriemma if he would be “nice” in the commentary booth during the Wings-Liberty game.
“Absolutely…We’re here to make players look good. Now, if you suck, I’ve got to say something, generally speaking,” he responded.
As the game neared its conclusion, Auriemma sang the praises of Fudd, who has buckled down after a rocky start to become a prolific member of the Wings’ starting unit.
READ MORE:
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