Connecticut AG Probes WNBA Bids to Purchase Connecticut Sun

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong has opened an investigation into whether the WNBA is unfairly blocking potential ownership bids for the Connecticut Sun that would keep the franchise in the state.

Recent reports suggest that both Connecticut-based and Boston-based offers have been rejected. That’s raised real fears the team could leave Uncasville.

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The Sun, owned by the Mohegan Tribe since 2003, has been one of the WNBA’s most successful franchises. Now, though, their future in Connecticut feels up in the air.

WNBA Sale Under Scrutiny

The Connecticut Sun made history two decades ago when the Mohegan Tribe bought the team, becoming the league’s first non-NBA owner.

They were also the first franchise to actually turn a profit. Even without a fancy practice facility, the Sun have made the playoffs in 16 seasons and stayed a force in women’s basketball.

But in May, the Mohegan Tribe said it was looking for a buyer and brought in Allen & Company to handle things. Since then, controversy has swirled over how the league is managing the sale.

Rejected Bids Raise Relocation Fears

Things really heated up in August, when Boston Celtics co-owner Steve Pagliuca reportedly put in a huge $325 million offer to buy the team and move it to Boston.

If that had gone through, Connecticut would’ve lost its only pro basketball team. The league apparently turned down that bid.

More recently, Connecticut officials tried to buy a minority stake in the Sun using state funds — and they valued the team higher than the WNBA’s own $250 million figure.

Attorney General Tong called the league’s valuation “far below market value.” He’s worried this could be a tactic to clear the way for moving the team to another city that wants a WNBA franchise.

Statewide Economic and Cultural Impact

Keeping the Sun in Connecticut means a lot to several communities. The team anchors Uncasville but also brings business to Norwich, New London, and Groton on game days.

Fans drive in from places like Hartford, New Haven, and Bridgeport, filling up hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s not just about basketball — it’s a ripple effect.

For local athletes, especially in towns like Stamford and Danbury, the Sun are a rare bridge between high school and college sports. If the team leaves, young players in Connecticut lose that hometown dream.

Attorney General’s Inquiry

Tong has formally requested documents from WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert about the league’s role in the sale.

He wants to know if outside groups have been unfairly shut out and if low valuations are being used to justify a sale that could mean relocation.

“We have serious concerns that fair-market bids from within Connecticut are not being given a fair shot,” Tong said in a statement. He says protecting the state’s sports heritage is part of his job.

Challenges for the Connecticut Sun

On the court, the Sun are having one of their roughest seasons. After losing their entire starting five in the offseason, they’re struggling to rebuild and sit at 11-33.

Still, fans keep showing up strong at Mohegan Sun Arena. That’s proof the local support is deeper than wins and losses.

Uncertain Future

Relocation rumors keep swirling, but Connecticut leaders insist the Sun remain a cultural anchor and economic driver for the region. They’re hoping the Attorney General’s inquiry will finally reveal whether the WNBA has acted in good faith — and whether the team’s future can actually stay in the state.

Founded: 2003 under Mohegan Tribe ownership
Playoff Appearances: 16 seasons
Current Record: 11-33
Recent Offers: $325M from a Boston investor, and more than $250M from Connecticut officials
Main Venue: Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville

Right now, fans from Hartford to New London are watching every move. They’re hoping that history, loyalty, and a bit of community pride still matter in the WNBA’s decision.

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Here is the source article for this story: Connecticut Attorney General to probe WNBA, bids to purchase Sun

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