Two prominent athletes from Connecticut, Azzi Fudd and Ilona Maher, recently came together for a unique episode of Power Hour with Ilona Maher, the YouTube series hosted by Maher, an Olympic rugby star. Their conversation and training session offered a glimpse into the synergy between basketball and rugby, rooted in their shared college experiences in the state.
Ilona Maher and Azzi Fudd Exchange Insights on UConn Basketball and Athletic Training
Azzi Fudd established herself as a standout figure in women’s basketball at the University of Connecticut before being selected as the first overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. Meanwhile, Ilona Maher achieved remarkable success on the rugby field, winning three national championships while playing for Quinnipiac University. Their parallel collegiate paths in Connecticut laid the foundation for a natural and engaging dialogue.
Beyond exchanging stories from their college days, the athletes engaged in a hands-on training segment that highlighted the crossover of skills between their sports. Maher demonstrated rugby training techniques, while Fudd introduced basketball drills to her guest. One memorable moment featured Fudd wrapping one of Maher’s arms in Saran Wrap, compelling the rugby player to dribble a basketball using only one hand — a challenge that underscored the fine motor skills and adaptability required in both disciplines.