Azzi Fudd, the standout guard for the UConn Huskies, has drawn admiration not only for her scoring ability but also for the elegance and consistency of her jumpshot. Her remarkable shooting skills caught the attention of basketball legend Stephen Curry, who publicly praised her form and technique, sparking widespread recognition of her talent during the 2023-2024 season.
Throughout her senior year, Fudd maintained a 43.6% three-point shooting percentage, changing the dynamics of crucial games with her precision from deep. Despite overcoming a significant ACL and meniscus injury in 2023, she strongly contributed to UConn’s national championship run, scoring 24 points in the final against South Carolina. Her performance solidified her reputation as one of college basketball’s premier shooters.
What Sets Fudd’s Jumpshot Apart According to Stephen Curry
Few have the authority to judge shooting like Stephen Curry, widely regarded as the greatest three-point shooter in <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA history. His unique perspective gave weight to Fudd’s rising status, as he admitted a touch of envy for her shot during a 2023 ESPN interview. Curry remarked,
I kind of get jealous about it, because it looks prettier than mine,
and added,
It’s kind of like a shooter’s heaven when you watch that.
Fudd later expressed her feelings about Curry’s words during a chance encounter at the Dolby Theatre’s ESPYs event, calling the praise an unforgettable moment. She said,
There’s like no greater compliment than that,
and,
To get a compliment from the greatest shooter, like, yeah. So that was, it was like heartwarming. I was like, oh, did he really just say that?
Curry’s comments highlight the rarity and quality of Fudd’s shooting ability, which commands respect even among the sport’s most skilled sharpshooters.
The Technical Mastery Behind Azzi Fudd’s Shooting Excellence
Fudd’s jumpshot is more than fluid aesthetics; it rests on meticulously developed mechanics. Guided initially by her parents and polished under the supervision of Brandon Payne, a trainer associated with Stephen Curry, her form combines natural rhythm with disciplined technique. Every aspect, from her spin on the ball to the follow-through, reflects careful refinement aimed at maximizing accuracy and consistency.
Her solid footwork provides a steady foundation, crucial for a reliable shot. Curry compared their shooting styles, saying,
I’m more kind of a toe-dominant shooter. Klay Thompson’s more of a jump shooter like Azzi.
He further noted,
She gets pretty good lift on her jump shot compared to even me.
This observation underscores how Fudd’s shot incorporates vertical elevation uncommon even among elite shooters, granting her a distinctive advantage.
Fudd’s shooting accolades culminated in a stunning performance during the national title game, where she tallied 24 points, alongside 5 rebounds and 3 steals, shooting 9-for-17 from the field to secure her place among college basketball’s elite.
The Foundations of Fudd’s Shooting Development
Years before earning championship glory, Fudd’s summers were dedicated to intense training sessions in South Carolina with Brandon Payne. Her mother, Katie, a former college basketball player at NC State and Georgetown, played a crucial role in shaping her daughter’s shooting form. Katie’s pivotal adjustment involved raising Azzi’s release point from below the shoulder to just above it, a modification that enhanced range and smoothness.
These refined mechanics not only contributed to Fudd’s impressive shooting percentages but also made her shot admired by players and coaches alike. This blend of familial support and expert coaching crafted a jumpshot that stands out for its clean release and touch, earning the respect of basketball fans and professionals.
Looking Ahead: Azzi Fudd’s Prospects Beyond College
With a national championship added to her resume and glowing endorsements from figures like Stephen Curry, Azzi Fudd is poised for the next stage in her basketball journey. The 2026 WNBA Draft is anticipated to select her early, where she is expected to bring her signature, picture-perfect shot to the professional ranks. Her poised shooting form and competitive experience suggest a promising career ahead, continuing the legacy of elite shooters in women’s basketball.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Stephen Curry wear 4?
A. FIBA, which manages Olympic basketball, once limited player numbers to between 4 and 15 to simplify things for referees. In 2014, FIBA removed this restriction. However, Team USA continues to follow this tradition in international games, like the Paris Olympics. This is why Curry used the No.