WNBA star Azzi Fudd is expanding her off-court portfolio by joining the lineup for the 2027 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, featuring in a high-profile photoshoot against the backdrop of Spain. The announcement was first detailed in an article by Hartford Courant, noting that the former UConn standout will be one of 11 women featured in the upcoming edition alongside professional models and pro golfer Charley Hull.
Fudd subsequently shared the news with her audience, dropping a behind-the-scenes teaser video on her podcast, Fudd Around and Find Out, which she co-hosts with Ashanti Plummer. According to details reported by The Big Lead, the initial photoshoot took place in Ibiza, Spain, capturing both the Mediterranean setting and the upcoming swimwear concepts before Fudd shared additional footage with her more than 864,000 Instagram followers.
Following in the Footsteps of UConn Greats
Fudd’s inclusion in the iconic magazine continues a notable pipeline of former University of Connecticut women’s basketball stars making their mark in the publication. Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart previously appeared in the 2022 issue, while Napheesa Collier was featured in the 2026 edition. This year’s group of participants has been conducting shoots across Mallorca and Ibiza, as outlined by the official Sports Illustrated platform.
For Fudd, the off-season project follows a transitional rookie campaign in the professional ranks. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, the 23-year-old guard navigated an intense debut year that was ultimately shortened due to physical setbacks.
Rookie Season Impact and Medical Recovery
While Fudd’s debut professional season was cut short, her performance on the court prior to the layoff left a lasting impression across the league. She played in 30 games before being shut down to undergo arthroscopic surgery on her right knee to address lingering soreness, as documented by Hartford Courant.
Despite the premature end to her playing schedule, Fudd’s scoring efficiency and perimeter skills earned her major recognition. She was named to the WNBA All-Rookie Team and secured victory in the WNBA Three-Point Contest. Across her rookie appearances, she maintained averages of 13.1 points, 1.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.7 steals per contest.
Looking Ahead to the 2027 Return
With her rehabilitation process underway, Fudd is expected to make a full return to the basketball court for the upcoming season. As fans await her official athletic comeback, the release of her Ibiza photoshoot teaser provides a glimpse into her expanding profile off the court. The complete Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue featuring Fudd and her fellow cohort members is scheduled for publication in 2027.