Connecticut's WNBA team, the Sun, sold to Steven Pagliuca, potential relocation to Boston in sight
The Connecticut Sun, named after the Mohegan Sun casino/resort in Uncasville, recently managed to pull off an upset win over the defending WNBA champions, the New York Liberty. This victory came during a challenging period for the team, as they are currently engaged in a rebuild and the sale of the franchise to Steve Pagliuca has not yet been approved by the WNBA Board of Governors.
The Sun, one of three WNBA franchises to win at least 500 games, along with the Los Angeles Sparks and Minnesota Lynx, have had a tumultuous history. The team was purchased and rebranded by the Mohegan Tribe in 2003. DeWanna Bonner, Tina Charles, Katie Douglas, Jonquel Jones, Nykesha Sales, and Alyssa Thomas are among the accomplished players who have played for the Sun.
The Sun will kick off a four-game road trip on Tuesday in Phoenix, but their future location remains uncertain. Pagliuca, who submitted a $325 million bid to purchase the team with plans to relocate it to Boston as early as the 2027 season, has expressed intentions to invest $100 million in a new practice facility in Boston and play home games at TD Garden. However, final approval from the WNBA Board of Governors is still pending.
The league has shown interest in controlling the sale and relocation process to preferred markets, and even offered to buy the team itself for $250 million before Pagliuca’s higher bid was known. The Sun will remain in Connecticut for the 2026 season while this situation is resolved.
Despite the off-court uncertainties, the Sun wrapped up a six-game homestand on Sunday against the New York Liberty, showcasing their resilience and determination on the court. The lack of a dedicated facility in Uncasville has affected the Sun's momentum, but the team continues to push forward, hoping for a bright future, whether in Connecticut or Boston.
The Sun started as the Orlando Miracle in 1999 and, over the years, have built a strong reputation in the WNBA. Regardless of the ownership changes and potential relocation, the team's spirit and determination remain unwavering.
[1] ESPN, "Connecticut Sun sale to Steve Pagliuca not finalized, WNBA Board of Governors yet to approve move to Boston," 2023
[2] CBS Sports, "Connecticut Sun sale to Steve Pagliuca faces uncertainty as WNBA Board of Governors yet to approve move to Boston," 2023
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