The WNBA has made a big move. The Connecticut Sun franchise is changing hands and shifting to Houston. This transition is backed by a unanimous decision from the boards of the WNBA and NBA.
The Sun’s journey with the Mohegan Tribe began in 2003 when they were brought from Orlando to Uncasville. Now, with Houston Rockets owner Tilman J. Fertitta taking over, the team will finish the 2026 season in Connecticut. They will play a few more games, including two in Hartford and one in Boston, before officially making the move to Houston in 2027.
Sun president Jen Rizzotti shared that the focus for this season is on making it memorable for fans. She wants players and staff to put on a great show for the last year in Connecticut. Rizzotti expressed hope that the association with Houston’s resources will benefit everyone involved.
The sale, which is reportedly around $300 million, sets a record for WNBA teams. It’s notable that this deal didn’t include a relocation fee. Fertitta, the new owner, already has plans to infuse his expertise and resources into the franchise. Former ESPN NBA reporter Kevin Pelton has been named the assistant general manager and vice president of analytics.
Rizzotti mentioned early discussions with Houston’s team, but strategies for the 2026 season have mainly been decided by her and general manager Morgan Tuck. Many staff members at the Sun may transition to Houston, though detailed conversations will come later.
Fertitta isn’t alone in his interest in the WNBA. He joins a trend where more NBA owners are looking to invest in women’s basketball. Rizzotti has noted how beneficial this relationship can be, sharing resources and energy across both leagues.
A recent study showed that women’s sports viewership has increased dramatically, suggesting a growing fan base for the WNBA. Engaging more NBA owners can help deepen that connection and elevate the overall profile of the league.
This change marks the next chapter for the Sun and highlights a broader trend. The future looks bright for all involved as they embrace the support and knowledge from the NBA side.
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