"I feel like I know her a lot better": Azzi Fudd shares how Baha Mar tournament brought her closer to Sarah Strong

Azzi Fudd is back in action with the UConn Huskies after a year away from the court due to a torn ACL. The guard played her first game against Farleigh Dickinson on Nov. 20, logging 12 minutes of action and scoring four points.

This week, the Huskies took part in the Baha Mar Women's Championship in Nassau, Bahamas. Azzi Fudd made her mark as she saw extended time on the court. In the championship game against Ole Miss on Wednesday, she finished with 18 points and four rebounds in 28 minutes.

Commenting on the impact of playing away from the Gampel Pavilion in the press conference after Wednesday's win, Fudd said:

"I was just telling Paige (Bueckers) and everyone. I'm roommates with Sarah (Strong) and I feel like we bonded so much on this trip, just forcing us to live together for these few days. That goes a long way on the court. I just feel like I know her a lot better.

"I think also getting to spend this time in such an amazing place other than Storrs with the great weather and getting to bond with each other in situations that we wouldn't usually. I just think if you can get to know your teammates well off the court, then you can only be a better teammate on the corner for that."

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Paige Bueckers admits feeling weird sharing court with Azzi Fudd

Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd were the No. 1 recruits of their respective high school recruiting class and their chemistry on the court was one of the most anticipated when Fudd joined the Huskies in 2021. That, however, was delayed as they both struggled with back-to-back injuries.

Having played three games together, Paige Bueckers commented on her synergy with Azzi Fudd.

"Honestly, it's a little weird," Bueckers said (via SNY). "'Cause we've wanted to for so long and now it's actually reality. And so, I mean, I feel like this is the first game where it kind of sunk in. She played a lot more, she looked like her aggressive self.

"Even the games we have played, I feel like we both weren't 100%, and so we're getting there, and we don't want to take it for granted and think that this is just what it is. We want to enjoy every moment playing together and just enjoy playing with the team."

This is Paige Bueckers' final season with the Huskies while Azzi Fudd has one more year with the team. With the goal of the national championship, the chemistry between the two guards is crucial for UConn now.