Key moments
The Connecticut Sun are set to relocate to Houston, Texas, after the 2026 season, following a significant $300 million purchase by the Fertitta family. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the history of the WNBA, as the team prepares to play its final season in Uncasville, Connecticut, in 2026 before making the move to Houston in 2027.
The Connecticut Sun have been a staple in Uncasville since 2003, when they were relocated from Orlando by the Mohegan Tribe. Over the years, the Sun have made the playoffs in 16 of their 22 seasons in Connecticut and reached the WNBA Finals four times, although they have yet to secure a championship title. The team’s recent performance, however, has raised questions about its future; last season, the Sun finished with a disappointing record of 11 wins and 33 losses, marking their first missed playoff appearance since 2016.
The Fertitta family’s acquisition of the Sun is not just a financial transaction; it is also expected to breathe new life into the franchise, which is anticipated to be renamed the Houston Comets. The original Houston Comets were a dominant force in the WNBA, winning four consecutive championships from 1997 to 2000. This historical context adds a layer of excitement and expectation for the new ownership and its plans for the team.
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.” His comments reflect the emotional impact this decision has on the local community, which has rallied around the team for nearly two decades.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert acknowledged the competitive nature of the relocation process, noting, “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.” This highlights the significance of Houston as a market for women’s basketball and the potential for the Comets to reclaim their former glory.
While the sale and relocation must still be approved by the WNBA Board of Governors, the groundwork for this transition is already being laid. The Connecticut Sun were the first franchise run by a non-NBA owner, a fact that underscores their unique position in the league’s history. As the team prepares for its final season in Connecticut, fans and stakeholders are left to ponder the implications of this move.
Geno Auriemma, a prominent figure in women’s basketball, remarked, “Moving, I think it leaves a void.” His statement resonates with many who have followed the Sun’s journey and highlights the challenges that come with such a significant change in the landscape of women’s sports.
As the Connecticut Sun prepare for their transition to Houston, the future of the franchise remains a topic of interest and speculation. Details remain unconfirmed, but the excitement surrounding the potential rebirth of the Houston Comets is palpable among fans and analysts alike.