Connecticut Sun Focus on Young Core to Rebuild in 2025

The Connecticut Sun’s 2025 WNBA season felt like a dramatic turning point for the franchise. The team shifted from being a perennial playoff contender to focusing squarely on rebuilding and player development.

After losing head coach Stephanie White and their entire starting five, the Sun handed the keys to newly promoted general manager Morgan Tuck. She faced the daunting task of reshaping the roster almost from scratch.

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With exciting rookies, a midseason spark from an international addition, and growing uncertainty about the team’s long-term future in Connecticut, the year brought both challenges and hints of promise. Fans from Uncasville to New Haven watched closely, unsure what would come next.

A New Era in Connecticut Basketball

Morgan Tuck jumped right in and made her mark on the organization. In the 2025 WNBA Draft, she picked standout college forwards Aneesah Morrow and Saniya Rivers, both viewed as possible cornerstones for the future.

Midseason, 2024 draft pick Leila Lacan finally made her way over from overseas. She brought dynamic playmaking and a burst of energy to a roster still finding its identity.

The Sun missed the playoffs for the first time in nine years. Still, they found some real success in developing their young talent.

Rivers broke the franchise rookie 3-point record. Lacan earned AP All-Rookie Team honors and looked right at home on the court.

Morrow led the team in rebounding, averaging 6.9 boards per game. Both Rivers and Lacan joined franchise legend Nykesha Sales in a pretty exclusive rookie club statistically.

Late-Season Moves and Momentum

The Sun made a pivotal move by acquiring Aaliyah Edwards in a late-season trade. She instantly bolstered their frontcourt strength.

After that, Connecticut closed out the year with six wins in its final 13 games. Not bad for a rebuilding squad, honestly.

Head coach Rachid Meziane, navigating his first WNBA season, earned widespread respect. He kept the team competitive and focused on growth, mental toughness, and ball movement.

Off-Court Turbulence and Relocation Rumors

Off the court, the Sun faced turbulence that caught attention all over the state. The Mohegan Tribe, who own the franchise, started exploring a possible sale.

This move opened the door for relocation bids from Boston and Hartford. Even the WNBA league office showed interest in the situation.

Uncertainty hung over the fan base and state leaders. Nobody liked the idea of the Sun leaving Connecticut.

Political Push to Keep the Sun in Connecticut

State officials, including leaders in the Connecticut General Assembly, floated a plan to buy a minority stake in the team. Their main goal is to keep the Sun anchored in Connecticut, whether at Mohegan Sun Arena or another regional spot.

Legislators from cities like Waterbury, Bridgeport, and New London pledged to fight any relocation effort. Some even threatened legal action if the team tried to move against the state’s wishes.

Future Roster Challenges

The rookie core has real upside, but challenges loom as the Sun head into the offseason. Key veterans are set to hit free agency, and the upcoming WNBA expansion draft could strip away valuable depth.

To make things trickier, Connecticut doesn’t own a 2026 lottery pick. The team will need shrewd free-agent signings and continued internal growth to stay competitive.

Building For the Long Haul

Without the safety net of a high draft pick, the Sun’s front office has to lean hard on Morgan Tuck’s player evaluation skills. The continued development of Morrow, Rivers, Lacan, and Edwards looks more important than ever.

Fans from Danbury to Norwich will be watching, hoping this core can blossom into a contender again. It’s not going to be easy, but who knows? The Sun have surprised people before.

Key Storylines for the 2026 Season

Looking ahead, several major narratives will shape the Connecticut Sun’s path forward:

Player Development: Can Rivers, Morrow, and Lacan build on their rookie success?
Roster Stability: How will free agency and expansion impact team chemistry?
Ownership Uncertainty: Will the Mohegan Tribe sell, and if so, to whom?
Location Security: Will political efforts successfully keep the Sun in-state?

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Here is the source article for this story: Connecticut Sun focused on young core after disappointing season: ‘Continue to build’

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