Full Breakdown
WNBA Approves Sale and Relocation of Connecticut Sun to Houston
5/14/2026, 12:10:33 PM
Sale and Relocation Approved
The WNBA and NBA Boards of Governors unanimously approved the sale of the Connecticut Sun to Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta and the team’s relocation to Houston for the 2027 season, where it will be rebranded as the Houston Comets. The Sun will finish 2026 in Connecticut with games in Hartford and Boston before moving.
Ownership History and Prior Sale Attempt
The Mohegan Tribe has owned the Sun since 2003. In fall 2024 the tribe began seeking a buyer. A $325 million Boston relocation offer was blocked, with the league citing Board authority and priority for cities such as Houston. The Fertitta deal follows a trend of NBA owners acquiring WNBA teams.
Timeline of Key Developments
Financial Terms
The Fertitta purchase is valued at $300 million, a record price for a WNBA franchise, and does not include a relocation fee. The earlier Boston proposal was reported at $325 million.
Implications for the League
Houston’s Rockets infrastructure gives the Sun shared facilities, marketing and analytics, which owners say will improve player development and fan experience. The move revives the Houston Comets brand, restoring professional women’s basketball to a market that once won four straight titles. It also highlights the league’s shift toward NBA ownership.
Official Statements
Sun president Jen Rizzotti said the priority is keeping staff and players focused on the 2026 season and noted “positive repercussions” of Houston’s resources. Houston officials, including Mayor John Whitmire, welcomed the move as a boost for the city and girls’ sports.
Criticism
Rizzotti warned that expanding NBA ownership should not marginalize independent owners who have long funded the league.
Conflicting Reports
The sale price is reported as $300 million, while the blocked Boston deal was $325 million; relocation fee terms remain undisclosed.
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
- “It's something that we should all feel excited about, that there are so many people interested in investing in the WNBA at this time, and we're going to make the most of it.” — Jen Rizzotti, Sun President
- “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 fan
Future Outlook
The transaction should close soon, after which the franchise will rebrand as the Houston Comets and begin roster building for the 2027 season.
