The WNBA's 30th season is underway, and the Dallas Wings outlasted the Indiana Fever 107-104 on Saturday. But the story of the game was the debut of top draft pick Azzi Fudd, who scored just three points in 18 minutes off the bench - the lowest ever by a No. 1 overall pick in a WNBA debut.
Wings coach Jose Fernandez encouraged the rookie to keep pushing, noting the team's deep backcourt, which includes Paige Bueckers, Arike Ogunbowale, and Odyssey Sims. The previous low was held by Kelsey Plum, who scored four points in her 2017 debut for the San Antonio Stars; Plum went on to become a four-time All-Star and two-time champion with the Las Vegas Aces.
Fudd's selection first overall sparked debate about whether her personal relationship with Bueckers influenced the pick. Bueckers has denied that, saying Fudd earned it on her own merit.
The Wings host the Atlanta Dream on Tuesday for their home opener.