Fudd and Strong Make Wooden Award Watch List
LOS ANGELES – The University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball team’s standout players, Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong, have been named to the 25-player watch list for the 2025-26 John R. Wooden Award Midseason Watch List, as announced Wednesday by the Los Angeles Athletic Club.
Prestigious Recognition
Selected through a poll of national college basketball experts, the watch list highlights the top-performing student-athletes vying for two of the most prestigious honors in college basketball: the Wooden Award All-American Team and the Wooden Award Most Outstanding Player. This recognition underscores the players’ impact in this competitive season.
Outstanding Performance by Azzi Fudd
Fudd, who is currently enjoying a career year, is averaging 17.9 points per game, with a remarkable shooting split of .493 from the field, .485 from three-point range, and a perfect 1.000 from the free-throw line. She ranks seventh nationally in three-point shooting percentage and stands third in made three-pointers (49) and fifth in three-pointers per game (3.27). When facing top-25 opponents this season, Fudd’s performance elevates with an impressive 23.8 points per game. These statistics not just reflect her scoring ability but also her capacity to step up in high-pressure situations, a quality that is essential for a player aiming for university and future professional honors.
Sarah Strong’s All-Around Impact
Meanwhile, Sarah Strong has emerged as a critical player for UConn, leading the team in several statistical categories, including points, rebounds, assists, blocks, and steals. She is currently averaging 18.0 points per game, with an extraordinary shooting percentage of .584 from the field, .426 from three-point distance, and .875 from the free-throw line. In contests against ranked teams, Strong’s numbers speak to her capability and resilience, showcasing averages of 18.5 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. Her versatile skill set makes her an invaluable asset to the Huskies this season.
UConn’s Impressive Season
Both Fudd and Strong have been instrumental in guiding UConn to an impressive 15-0 record. The team has consistently held the No. 1 ranking in the nation throughout the season, underscoring their collective talent and hard work. UConn’s dominance in women’s college basketball continues, supported by the exceptional performances of its key players.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, both players will be looking to maintain their momentum and solidify their positions as frontrunners for the Wooden Award. The Huskies have critical matchups ahead, including games against ranked opponents that will further test their mettle. Upcoming contests are pivotal not only for UConn’s quest for an unbeaten season but also for the individual quests of Fudd and Strong as they seek recognition in the broader landscape of college basketball.
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