Azzi Fudd is securing her future before even stepping onto a WNBA court. The projected No. 1 pick is making major moves off the court, starting with a landmark NIL deal with Jordan Brand. This partnership is just the beginning of her growing business empire.

"I grew up watching what the Jumpman meant to basketball and to the culture around the game, so becoming part of the Jordan Brand family represents what I am stepping into and the greatness that I aspire to be."

While Fudd may not have been able to watch Jordan dominate championships, she certainly felt his impact. By 2003, the NBA legend had retired, but the Air Jordan brand's hold over the basketball market was clear. That's why signing with the brand now left Fudd emotional.

"To wear the same logo that so many legends have worn is something I don't take lightly. For me, it's about honoring that legacy while also helping show what the next generation of women's basketball looks like. I'm excited to keep pushing my game forward while representing Jordan Brand with pride. And I hope that I continue to inspire young girls who dream of playing at the highest level."

The deal went official on Friday, as Fudd joins an already star-studded team of Napheesa Collier, Maya Moore, and current UConn partner-in-crime Sarah Strong. In fact, she made a request to her teammate, Sarah Strong, when she inked her deal in January.

Fudd was directly associated as an ambassador with Steph Curry's Under Armour brand throughout her college program, although no official deal was made with her.

With this, the Jordan brand adds a future WNBA star. Fudd has averaged 17.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 3 assists with one of the highest three-point scoring percentages (46). She has been nominated for Player of the Year honors for the Naismith and Wooden awards, and is now looking forward to grabbing another NCAA Tournament title after already securing the Big East tournament with the Huskies.

"I've gotten a lot of texts, a lot of congratulations, a lot of love." Fudd said.

GEICO Signs Azzi Fudd as First Female Athlete Partner

The Jordan brand is not the only NIL deal Fudd has made ahead of March Madness, as she has become the first female athlete ever to partner with GEICO in a multiyear talent sponsorship deal.

This unique milestone was celebrated across billboards around Madison Square Garden ahead of UConn's game against St. John's. Fudd's partnership with the company will grow when she debuts in the WNBA this year.

The projected No.1 Draft pick is also expected to be featured in GEICO's Paramount+ docuseries "Miles That Matter," showcasing her alongside notable college basketball stars. The series premieres on March 16.

The 23-year-old has also unveiled solo partnerships with Planet Fitness and Cover Girl, as her transition to the pros continues.

Read more at She Got Game!

Written by

Joy Bassy

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar