Azzi Fudd, the standout guard for the UConn Huskies, has opened up about her pre-game rituals and strategies for dealing with self-doubt. As a prominent figure in women’s college basketball, Fudd balances her athletic commitments with her personal life and burgeoning podcasting career. Despite the pressures, she maintains a grounded approach that resonates with many athletes.
Fudd describes her pre-game routine as a crucial aspect of her performance. She begins her day with a workout and warm-up lift at noon, ahead of practice starting at 13:30. Following practice, she incorporates a recovery session that involves manual treatment and stretching. Despite her aversion to needles, she willingly undergoes recovery IV treatments to ensure her body is well-prepared. “It’s just a busy, all-day, non-stop affair,” Fudd explains, acknowledging that while the schedule can be tedious, intentional recovery makes a notable difference in her performance.
Essential Game-Day Preparations
For Fudd, game day is about focus and preparation. Her essential items include a devotional, headphones for music, and a can of Celsius, which she relies on for energy. She emphasizes the importance of her pre-game rituals, stating, “I always get my hair braided—my teammate does my hair. I read my devotional, have a pre-game poop, and drink my pre-game Celsius.” The humorous mention of a “pre-game poop” highlights her candidness and offers insight into how she manages nerves. “When I feel my nerves, it’s in my stomach,” she notes. “So I gotta let it go—relax, you know? Get it all out, and then you’re ready to go.”
Fudd’s support network plays a significant role in her mental preparation. “My teammates really ground me,” she says. “Getting to play with people who are your best friends makes it more meaningful.” The camaraderie among players helps to alleviate the pressure that comes with high-stakes competition.
Confronting Self-Doubt
Self-doubt is a common challenge for athletes, and Fudd is no exception. She shares her perspective on managing these feelings, stating, “You can’t make every shot, you can’t do everything perfectly.” This realization has helped her to navigate moments of uncertainty. “I’ve been working on making sure that those moments of self-doubt are just that—moments.”
As the Most Outstanding Player of last year’s Final Four, Fudd has shown flashes of brilliance on the court. Now, she is focused on elevating her game for the upcoming season as the Huskies aim to defend their title. With a strong support system and a clear mindset, Azzi Fudd is poised to make an even greater impact in women’s basketball this year.
