Welcome to the majors, Azzi Fudd.
The Dallas Wings opened the 2026 WNBA Draft by taking Fudd first overall, making it the second straight year a UConn guard has gone to the state of Texas at No. 1.
Last year, Dallas took Paige Bueckers, who was the clear favorite to go first. There wasn’t a top consensus this time, but Fudd’s UConn history with Bueckers and backcourt shooting efficiency deservedly put her in the conversation, with more room to grow.
Dallas now has its long-term backcourt partnership, which will make for an entertaining watch throughout the season.
So, how much will Fudd make as a rookie? Here’s what to know:
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Who is the No. 1 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft?
Azzi Fudd, a guard at UConn, is the top pick in 2026, going to Dallas.
What is Azzi Fudd’s WNBA salary?
With the new CBA, Fudd is set to make the most ever for a WNBA rookie. Here’s a breakdown of her salary across the first four years of her rookie deal:
Year 1: $500,000
Year 2: $520,000
Year 3: $572,000
Year 4: $646,360
Is Azzi Fudd the WNBA’s highest-paid rookie?
Yes, Fudd will be the highest-paid WNBA rookie in 2026. For comparison’s sake, Olivia Miles, who went No. 2 to Minnesota, will earn $466,913 in her first year. That total will grow each season across four years, but won’t match or surpass Fudd’s contract.
How much is Paige Bueckers making per year in the WNBA?
To compare with Fudd from a year later, here’s how Bueckers’ $348,198 total salary is being spread out over four seasons, via Spotrac:
2025: $78,831
2026: $80,408
2027: $88,449
2028: $100,510









