The NCAA Women’s College Basketball Tournament is kicking off this week, and for LGBTQ+ fans, there are some particularly heartwarming stories to watch unfold amid the competition.
This year, four standout players who are proudly out and part of the LGBTQ+ community are not only competing at the top of their game but also sharing their journeys of love and support from their partners, who are also athletes. Let’s dive into the love stories of these inspiring individuals as they chase championship dreams.
Azzi Fudd, Connecticut Guard
Azzi Fudd is a household name in women’s college basketball, leading the undefeated University of Connecticut Huskies with a perfect 34-0 record. Widely projected to be the top pick in the next WNBA draft, Fudd is also making headlines off the court. She is dating Paige Bueckers, her former UConn teammate who now plays for the Dallas Wings in the WNBA.
The couple kept fans curious about their relationship status until they confirmed it in a charming TikTok video during the WNBA All-Star Game last summer. In a playful exchange, Bueckers was quizzed about how well she knew Fudd, culminating in a sweet reveal that delighted their fans. As UConn makes its way through the tournament, Bueckers is often seen in the stands, cheering on Fudd and her former team with pride.
Olivia Miles, TCU Guard
Olivia Miles, standing at 5 foot 10, commands the court as the point guard for the TCU Horned Frogs. The team enters the tournament as the No. 3 seed in the West Regional, boasting an impressive 29-5 record. Miles transferred from Notre Dame with hopes of breaking past the Sweet 16, a milestone she is yet to achieve.
Off the court, Miles is in a loving relationship with Maddy Westbeld, her former teammate from Notre Dame who now plays professionally in the WNBA. The pair made their relationship public last summer, and their pet cat, Bean, even has his own Instagram account, capturing their adorable moments together.
Rori Harmon, Texas Guard
Rori Harmon is a driving force for the Texas Longhorns, who have earned the No. 1 seed and are fervently pursuing their first national title since 1986. Harmon’s relationship with Shaylee Gonzales, a former Texas teammate now playing overseas, adds another layer of motivation for her on the court.
Their relationship became official through a TikTok video the couple shared last year, and it has since been celebrated by fans and teammates alike. Harmon’s brilliance on the court and her love for Gonzales off of it continue to inspire many within the LGBTQ+ community.
MiLaysia Fulwiley, LSU Guard
MiLaysia Fulwiley’s journey has taken her from the University of South Carolina to playing a pivotal role at LSU. Her stellar performance has earned LSU the No. 2 seed, and she was honored as the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year. Fulwiley shares her life with JaMeesia Ford, a track and field athlete at South Carolina, forming what many see as an athletic power couple.
Despite Fulwiley transferring to a rival SEC school, their relationship remains strong and celebrated. Ford and Fulwiley were both co-freshman athletes of the year at South Carolina. Fulwiley’s decision to go public about their relationship was driven by the strength and uniqueness they find in their partnership.
The visibility of these athletes and their relationships showcases the beauty and diversity within the sports community, providing role models for countless LGBTQ+ fans and aspiring athletes. As the tournament progresses, we look forward to seeing these players excel both on and off the court.
Stay tuned for more updates, and be sure to catch these remarkable players in action as March Madness unfolds!
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