**WNBA Dallas Wings Eye Potential Reunion of UConn Stars in 2026 Draft**
Key Takeaways:
- Dallas Wings re-sign Arike Ogunbowale and pair her with Paige Bueckers for 2026 season.
- With the first pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, the Wings are projected to choose Azzi Fudd.
- Fudd’s success in college basketball and her relationship with Bueckers heralds an anticipated reunion.
Dallas, Texas — The Dallas Wings are making significant movements in the WNBA free agency, including pairing Arike Ogunbowale with Paige Bueckers and possibly reuniting her with her UConn teammate Azzi Fudd in the upcoming 2026 WNBA draft.
Wings Fortify Roster in Free Agency
The Dallas Wings have been heavily active during the free agency period with not just retaining key players but also strengthening their team. The most prominent move was to bring back superstar guard Arike Ogunbowale to pair with Paige Bueckers. Despite a comparatively subdued performance we saw from Ogunbowale last season, she is expected to bounce back in the 2026 campaign.
The Wings also signed former Minnesota Lynx forwards Alanna Smith and Jessica Shepard. Smith has signed a three-year max deal while Shepard has been contracted for two years for reportedly $1 million per year.
A Thoughtful Strategy in the 2026 Draft
As the Wings eye contention in 2026, one of their critical moves this year is their selection in the 2026 WNBA Draft. They hold the first pick, with four realistic options: Lauren Betts, Awa Fam, Azzi Fudd, and Olivia Miles. Fam is viewed as a prospect with extreme promise, although she is likely to need more time to develop before reaching her full potential.
Given the circumstances, all signs point to Azzi Fudd who is considered a WNBA-ready prospect. Despite some struggles in the NCAA Tournament, Fudd’s elite three-point shooting and above-average defense make her a suitable choice for the Wings.
Potential UConn Reunion on the Cards?
A motivating factor behind the speculated pick of Fudd is her previous success with Paige Bueckers at the University of Connecticut. Both their on-court chemistry and off-court camaraderie could be invaluable to the Wings. The anticipation of their reunion promises must-watch television for women’s basketball aficionados and could ensure the Dallas Wings become one of the most-watched teams in the WNBA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Paige Bueckers trending?
A: Paige Bueckers is trending due to Dallas Wings’ potential pick of Azzi Fudd in the WNBA Draft which could see a reunion of the UConn stars.
Q: What happens next?
A: The next significant event will be the 2026 WNBA Draft where the Dallas Wings will make their highly anticipated first pick.
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