In a significant development for women’s basketball, the Connecticut Sun have announced their plans to relocate to Houston, Texas, after the conclusion of the 2026 season. This move comes after the Fertitta family agreed to purchase the franchise for a staggering $300 million, a record sale price for a WNBA team.
The Connecticut Sun have been a staple in Uncasville, Connecticut, since 2003, when they were relocated from Orlando by the Mohegan Tribe. Over their 22 seasons in Connecticut, the Sun have made the playoffs 16 times and reached the WNBA Finals four times, although they have yet to secure a championship. Their final season in Uncasville will be in 2026, after which the team is expected to be renamed the Houston Comets, reviving a historic franchise that won four consecutive championships from 1997 to 2000.
Last season, however, was a challenging one for the Sun, as they finished with an 11-33 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016. This downturn in performance may have influenced the decision to relocate, as the team seeks a fresh start in a city with a rich basketball history.
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 words reflect the deep connection the team has fostered with the local community over the years.
As the announcement unfolds, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert noted, “Relocation decisions are made by the WNBA Board of Governors and not by individual teams.” She also highlighted the competitive nature of the bidding process, mentioning Houston’s strong history in the league and its ownership group.
While the Fertitta family’s acquisition and the team’s relocation are significant, the move leaves a void in Connecticut. Geno Auriemma, a prominent figure in women’s basketball, remarked, “Moving, I think it leaves a void.” This sentiment resonates with many fans who have supported the Sun through thick and thin.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline and logistics of the move, but the excitement and anticipation surrounding the potential return of the Comets to Houston are palpable. The original Houston Comets were part of the league from 1997 to 2008, and their legacy continues to influence the current landscape of women’s basketball.
As the Connecticut Sun prepare for their final season in Uncasville, the community reflects on the team’s impact and the memories created over the years. The relocation to Houston marks a new chapter for the franchise, one that will undoubtedly be watched closely by fans and analysts alike.
