Top WNBA Pick Azzi Fudd Complains About Officiating After Preseason Game

Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 overall pick for the Dallas Wings, voiced concerns about officiating after Sunday's preseason game against the Las Vegas Aces. Asked about adjusting to the pro game's physicality, the rookie said she felt more confused than anything.

"Honestly, I feel more confused. I thought you could be physical in the W, and anytime you touch someone, it’s a foul," Fudd said. "I don’t know. I’m still figuring that out."

Her veteran teammates laughed, shook their heads and patted her on the shoulder as she spoke. Wings forward Jessica Shepard joked that Fudd was still learning press conferences too, since she "may get hit" with a fine.

Fudd did not go all out against the officials. She sounded surprised at how tightly games are called compared to her expectations.

The WNBA takes criticism of officiating seriously. Sophie Cunningham drew fines three times in 2025 for her ref comments, including one over a lighthearted TikTok where she lip-synced a Sabrina Carpenter song.

Fudd faces no repercussions, a league source told Front Office Sports. Officials view it as rookie growing pains during preseason, especially since she did not single anyone out.