“I am disappointed, of course,” said Rebecca Lobo, reflecting on the Connecticut Sun’s recent struggles and their eventual departure from New England. The former UConn women’s basketball All-American lamented the loss of a professional women’s franchise in a region that has long supported women’s sports.
In a statement that resonated with many fans, Lobo added, “It is sad for the fans, because it feels like Connecticut and New England should have a professional women’s franchise.” The Connecticut Sun, which has been a staple in the WNBA since its inception, faced numerous challenges, including difficulties attracting free agents due to its location and the absence of a dedicated practice facility.
The Sun franchise was acquired by the Mohegan Tribe in 2003 but struggled to maintain its competitive edge, leading to attempts to relocate to Boston or other parts of Connecticut before ultimately being sold for $300 million to a Houston group.
As Lobo prepares for her role as part of ESPN’s top women’s basketball crew for the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four, she also addressed the current state of women’s college basketball. “I think when you look at the starting groups for both sides, South Carolina has so much size,” she noted, highlighting the advantages that the Gamecocks possess over UConn.
UConn’s top two post players, Serah Williams and Jana El Alfy, have struggled in the tournament, combining for only 28 points across four games. In contrast, South Carolina boasts Madina Okot, a 6-6 senior center who averages 13.2 points per game and has been a dominant force in the paint.
Despite these challenges, Lobo remains optimistic about the upcoming matchups in the Final Four, stating, “It is going to be a great matchup and a close game.” The tournament will feature No. 1 South Carolina facing off against No. 1 UConn, alongside No. 1 Texas and No. 1 UCLA.
As the excitement builds for the Final Four, Lobo’s insights provide a glimpse into the evolving landscape of women’s basketball, both at the collegiate and professional levels. Her reflections on the Connecticut Sun’s departure serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by women’s sports in maintaining visibility and support.
With the tournament just around the corner, fans are eager to see how these teams will perform on the national stage, while Lobo’s commentary continues to resonate with those who have followed her career and the growth of women’s basketball.
