Even after playing just two games last season, Azzi Fudd is still considered one of the top three shooters in the UConn Huskies. Despite multiple injury setbacks, her brilliance has kept her in the conversation as a player who could solve one of the Chicago Sky’s biggest problems—shooting. 

Although she’s still not back on the court, the chances are pretty high. According to ESPN’s latest mock draft, Fudd is the projected no.3 pick — the spot the Sky landed after the draft lottery on Sunday. Tyler Marsh, the Sky’s head coach, has made it crystal clear that their priority is improving their shooting. “Shooting. We want shooting. And lots of it,” Marsh had conveyed during his first media interaction. The sentiment was echoed once again today, this time by GM Jeff Pagliocca. 

“The top priority is going to be shooting,” he iterated after the draft lottery. With the team ranked dead last in the WNBA for 3-point shooting, the Huskies star’s ability to knock down shots could be the missing piece they desperately need.

And it’s very well known that Sky was at the bottom of the league in both 3-point attempts (14.5) and makes (4.8) per game. Their 30.7% shooting from deep is second-worst, just slightly ahead of the Seattle Storm. 

While their frontcourt is rock solid with Angel Reese, Kamilla Cardoso, and Elizabeth Williams, the Sky’s guard lineup still needs a star. Hence, UConn’s guard, who has already proven she’s capable of carrying a team, could be the perfect match. 

Back in her sophomore year, when Paige Bueckers was benched, Fudd dropped a career-high 32 points against Texas, leading UConn to a massive win. Her shooting percentage stands at 41.7% of her 3-point attempts in college. Even as a teenager, she made waves by not only attending but dominating Stephen Curry’s SC30 Select Camp. She won the 3-point contest twice—once while recovering from a torn ACL. Then, let’s not forget that during her two initial college seasons (despite being riddled with injuries), the 22-year-old lit up the court.  

In her freshman year, she scored 303 points in 25 games. The following season, she played just 15 games but still managed 227 points. However, for now, she is rehabbing after tearing her ACL and MCL just two games into the 2023-24 season. But she might return very soon. 

Azzi Fudd to return in december?

Undoubtedly, it’s been a tough road for the UConn star, as this is her third major injury in three seasons. First, it was a foot injury during her freshman season. Then, knee injuries sidelined her, and she ended up playing just 15 games in all. 

Just when we thought she’d soar in the 2023-24 season, unfortunately, after two games, she suffered an ACL and meniscal tear in practice. But the good part is she’s getting closer to making a comeback. “I’m feeling really good, feeling strong, so I’m excited,” she shared at Big East Media Day. 

While she admitted she’s still on “load management,” head coach Geno Auriemma remains optimistic.“She won’t be ready in early November, but we’re hoping to have her back before the biggest part of our schedule,” he said. 

If everything goes well, Fudd could be back on the court by December, with a potential return date set for UConn’s game against Holy Cross. And we can’t wait to see her back in action. Also, let’s see where she actually ends up in WNBA Draft.