UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd recently launched her podcast, Fudd Around and Find Out, where she discussed her memorable experience at the <a href=”https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/wnba/”>WNBA All-Star Weekend. During the event, Fudd had the opportunity to meet several prominent WNBA players, including one of her personal favorites, Natasha Cloud. Fudd expressed how much Cloud’s influence has meant to her development as a player.
When asked about the players she was most excited to meet at the All-Star Game, Fudd highlighted the impact Natasha Cloud has had on her.
“Gosh, I met so many people,” Fudd said. “It was really fun to see players, like, I’m a big fan of Natasha Cloud, I love her. She played for the Mystics, like she’s one of my favourite players growing up. She made me love watching the Mystics and when she got traded I dont see her as much. So being able to see her, it was like fun.” —Azzi Fudd
Natasha Cloud was selected by the Washington Mystics as the 15th overall pick in the 2015 WNBA draft. She contributed to the team for nine seasons and was part of the 2019 championship-winning roster. In 2024, she transitioned to the Phoenix Mercury before moving to the Connecticut Sun and shortly thereafter being traded to the New York Liberty.
Cloud’s presence remains strong in the league, as demonstrated by her participation in the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game, where she won the Skills Challenge. Fudd’s admiration for Cloud stems from her style of play and leadership, which has inspired the younger guard’s own approach to basketball.
Azzi Fudd’s Path Forward as a Senior and Her Podcast Goals
Entering her senior year at UConn, Azzi Fudd is preparing for what could be her final collegiate season before joining the professional ranks. Though eligible for the 2025 WNBA draft after last season, she elected to return to the Huskies for one more year, aiming to continue her growth and impact on the court.
In addition to focusing on her development as a player, Fudd is expanding her voice off the court through her new podcast. She shared her enthusiasm for bringing meaningful conversations to the show and revealed her dream guest would be former <a href=”https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA star Carmelo Anthony, who influenced her basketball journey.
“My dream guest on the pod is Carmelo Anthony,” Fudd said. “He was my favorite player growing up, and I’ve met him a couple of times, but I would love to have him on the pod. I know he has a pod himself, so if he wants to bring me on his pod as well, I’m in.” —Azzi Fudd
Produced in partnership with Stephen Curry’s Unanimous Media, the podcast aims to highlight stories within and beyond sports, showcasing perspectives from various athletes and personalities. This collaboration reflects Fudd’s passion and determination to broaden her impact both on and off the court.
The Lasting Effect of Natasha Cloud’s Influence on Azzi Fudd’s Growth
Azzi Fudd’s experience meeting and drawing inspiration from Natasha Cloud highlights the significance of role models in sports. Cloud’s success with the Mystics and ongoing presence in the WNBA exemplify the kind of leadership and resilience that resonate deeply with younger players like Fudd.
As Fudd continues to develop her skills at UConn and shape her future in professional basketball, the influence of players like Cloud serves as motivation. With her senior season approaching and an evolving presence through her podcast, Fudd is poised to make significant strides, reinforcing the impact of mentorship and admiration within the basketball community.