In a groundbreaking development for the WNBA, the Connecticut Sun have announced plans to relocate to Houston, Texas, following the conclusion of the 2026 season. This move comes as the Fertitta family has agreed to purchase the franchise for a staggering $300 million, a transaction that is poised to reshape the landscape of women’s professional basketball.
The Connecticut Sun, who have called Uncasville, Connecticut home since 2003, will play their final season in the state in 2026 before making the transition to Houston in 2027. The franchise is expected to be rebranded as the Houston Comets, reviving a name that holds significant historical weight in the WNBA, as the original Comets won four consecutive championships from 1997 to 2000.
Over their 22 seasons in Connecticut, the Sun have made the playoffs 16 times and reached the WNBA Finals on four occasions, although they have yet to secure a championship title. The team’s recent performance, however, has raised concerns; they finished last season with a disappointing record of 11 wins and 33 losses, marking their first playoff absence since 2016.
Governor Ned Lamont expressed his sentiments regarding the relocation, stating, “The Connecticut Sun inspired fans, elevated women’s sports, and represented our state with pride.” This statement underscores the emotional impact the team has had on the local community and the broader landscape of women’s athletics.
While the sale and relocation have been agreed upon, the final decision rests with the WNBA Board of Governors, which must approve the transaction. Cathy Engelbert, the WNBA Commissioner, noted the competitive nature of the bidding process, highlighting Houston’s strong history in the league and its reputable ownership group. Engelbert remarked, “There are a variety of cities that obviously bid, and one of those I wanted to shout out — because they have such a strong history in this league and their great ownership group — is Houston.”
The Connecticut Sun were notable for being the first franchise in the WNBA to be run by a non-NBA owner, a distinction that has added to their unique identity within the league. The Mohegan Tribe, which has owned the team since its relocation from Orlando, has played a crucial role in the franchise’s development and success over the years.
As the franchise prepares for its final season in Connecticut, the sense of nostalgia is palpable. Geno Auriemma, a prominent figure in women’s basketball, commented, “Moving, I think it leaves a void.” This sentiment reflects the broader implications of the team’s departure, not just for the fans but for the state of Connecticut as a whole.
With the relocation set for 2027, the Connecticut Sun’s transition to Houston marks a significant chapter in WNBA history. As the team prepares for this monumental change, the legacy of the Sun will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the hearts of their loyal fans.
