WNBA Pushback Could End Connecticut Sun’s Stay

The Connecticut Sun, one of the WNBA’s most competitive franchises, might finally secure its future in the state. There’s a proposed deal between Governor Ned Lamont’s administration and the Mohegan Tribe, who own the team.

But there’s a snag. The WNBA itself reportedly objects to the state acquiring a stake in the team. This tension between local hopes and league priorities could really shape what women’s pro basketball looks like in Connecticut for a long time.

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The Proposed Partnership Between Connecticut and the Mohegan Tribe

The plan centers on a strategic investment from both public and private groups. They want the state of Connecticut and private investors to buy up to 30% of the Connecticut Sun franchise.

There’s no official word on the team’s value, but earlier bids hint that this portion might cost just under $100 million. The Mohegan Tribe, based in Montville, owns the team now and seems determined to keep the Sun part of Connecticut’s sports scene.

Infrastructure Investment and Economic Impact

The deal doesn’t stop at buying equity. Connecticut would put about $100 million in bond funds toward building and owning a new practice facility, probably in Hartford.

This sports complex would become a training hub and—hopefully—spark some economic energy in the area. The Sun would still play most of their home games at Mohegan Sun Arena near Norwich. WNBA rules only let them play two games a season in Hartford, so that won’t change.

WNBA Opposition and Relocation Concerns

The biggest hurdle? The WNBA seems pretty uncomfortable with state government owning part of a franchise. League insiders say they’d rather move the Sun to an NBA city instead.

Houston keeps coming up as a possible landing spot, especially if an NBA owner takes charge there.

Why the League May Favor Houston Over Connecticut

The league thinks being in an NBA market could mean more ticket sales, bigger sponsorships, and a higher profile. But moving the Sun would pull the team out of southeastern Connecticut, where towns like New London and Groton have backed them for years.

Local Commitment to Keeping the Sun in Connecticut

Despite the league’s stance, people close to the Mohegan Tribe say they’re not deep in talks with any out-of-state buyers. Several cities—Middletown, West Hartford, and Stamford—have stepped up to support keeping the team local.

They all point to the Sun’s economic and cultural value for Connecticut.

Economic and Community Benefits

The Sun draw fans from all over, from Bridgeport to Waterbury, which helps local tourism and hospitality. The team also gives women’s sports a boost, inspiring young athletes across the state.

Boosts local business revenues through game-day tourism.
Promotes Connecticut as a hub for professional women’s sports.
Inspires youth participation in basketball and athletics.
Strengthens the state’s national sports identity.

What’s Next for the Connecticut Sun?

The next few weeks could be crucial. Negotiations are apparently close to wrapping up, but the Lamont administration and the Mohegan Tribe still have to figure out how to address the league’s concerns and protect local interests.

There’s a lot to sort out—legal, financial, and otherwise. Whatever happens, it’ll have to fit within WNBA rules.

A Balancing Act Between Business and Tradition

This situation really highlights the ongoing tension between pro leagues chasing growth in bigger markets and the communities fighting to keep their hometown teams. In Connecticut, the challenge is tricky—balancing fiscal responsibility, deciding how much to invest in sports infrastructure, and holding onto the emotional ties fans feel for the Sun’s presence in the state.

As talks move forward, folks from Hartford to the shoreline are definitely paying attention. The outcome here could decide if Connecticut keeps one of the WNBA’s premier franchises—or if, honestly, the Sun will set on women’s pro basketball in the state.

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Here is the source article for this story: Report: WNBA pushback could end Sun’s Connecticut stay

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