Chalien Dantes/Contributor

Azzi Fudd is heading to the Dallas Wings as the first overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, setting up a reunion with former UConn teammate Paige Bueckers.

Fudd’s arrival in Dallas comes at a time of major financial change across the league. Under a new collective bargaining agreement, the rookie guard is set to earn $500,000 in her first season, a dramatic leap from the $78,831 Bueckers received as the top pick just a year earlier. The WNBA salary cap has also jumped from $1.5 million in 2025 to $7 million, opening the door for the league’s first million dollar contracts.

While the earnings reflect the league’s rapid growth, Fudd now turns her focus to making an impact on the court with the Wings as she begins her professional career.

Behind her, the Minnesota Lynx selected Olivia Miles with the second overall pick after a tight race for the top spot. She is set to earn $466,913 in her rookie campaign.

The Seattle Storm picked Spanish centre Awa Fam Thiam, while Lauren Betts landed with the Washington Mystics. Gabriel Jacquez joined the Chicago Sky, and Kiki Rice was selected by Toronto Tempo to round out the top six.

Across the board, the finances has shifted. Every player who secures a roster spot this season will earn more than any WNBA player did in 2025, with the new minimum salary of $270,000 now exceeding last year’s maximum.