Full Breakdown
WNBA Approves Sale and Relocation of Connecticut Sun to Houston, Reviving the Comets
5/14/2026, 9:03:50 AM
Sale and Relocation Approved
On May 13, 2026 the WNBA and NBA Boards of Governors unanimously approved the Connecticut Sun’s sale to Houston Rockets owner Tilman J. Fertitta and the team’s move to Houston for the 2027 season. The $300 million deal sets a league record and includes no relocation fee.
Background and Ownership
The Mohegan Tribe bought the former Orlando Miracle in 2003, moving it to Uncasville as the Sun. Tribal ownership made the franchise the first professional team owned by a Native American entity and helped it become profitable in 2010 and a top-attendance club through 2022.
Impact and Significance
Houston regains a WNBA franchise, reviving the Comets name that won the league’s first four titles (1997-2000). Fertitta’s NBA ownership may enable shared marketing, ticketing and facility resources, mirroring a broader trend of NBA owners acquiring WNBA teams.
Official Statements
The WNBA said the unanimous board vote “will bring additional resources and infrastructure to the franchise.” Sun president Jen Rizzotti stressed keeping staff and players focused on the 2026 season while noting “positive repercussions” of joining Houston’s ecosystem. Mohegan Tribe spokesperson Joe Soper thanked fans for 23 years of support.
Criticism and Opposition
Connecticut lawmakers introduced the “Home Team Act” in March 2026 to help keep professional teams in the state, reflecting local resistance. The league also blocked a $325 million Boston offer, citing its policy that relocation decisions rest with the Board and that cities already granted expansion, such as Houston, have priority.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Sources differ on the sale amount: ESPN reported a $300 million deal, while earlier coverage cited a $325 million Boston bid that was rejected. Details on any relocation fee remain unclear, and the final branding, arena arrangement (Toyota Center versus shared use) and staff-transition timeline have not been disclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think, first and foremost, I want our staff and players to just be able to focus on this season and being present for the 2026 last season in Connecticut,” — Jen Rizzotti, Sun president
- “Mohegan owes an enormous amount of gratitude first and foremost to our extraordinary fans cheering on the team for 23 incredible seasons. This team — and what the talented women who have worn this uniform over the years have meant to Mohegan Sun, our region and the impact they’ve made both on and off the court, has been nothing short of remarkable,” — Joe Soper, Mohegan Tribe corresponding secretary
- “Actually excited that they're coming back, seeing that they actually won four titles in a row and just disappeared.” — Chris Williams, Houston resident
- “I think it's amazing that they are. I think it will bring people to the city. Lots of basketball fans. Good for girls. Go, girls.” — Crisha Lewis, Houston resident
