The Houston Rockets ownership group is intensifying discussions about the possible acquisition and relocation of the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun, reports ESPN. Talks have reportedly turned more favorable after the Rockets enhanced their bid to a more acceptable figure. While a formal offer is reportedly on the table, no exclusive agreement has been signed yet.
The WNBA has expressed interest in returning the team to Houston, nearly two decades after the Houston Comets folded in December 2008 due to financial difficulties. The Comets, one of the WNBA’s original teams, secured the league’s first four championships with stars like Cynthia Cooper Dike, Sheryl Swoopes, and Tina Thompson leading the way.
Since 2003, the Mohegan Tribe has owned the Sun, relocating the team from Orlando to Uncasville, Connecticut. Over a year ago, the franchise started seeking a limited partner to help finance infrastructure development. Among those interested in outright purchasing the Sun, the Rockets increased their offer to $250 million, matching the expansion fees paid by Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia earlier this year.
During the summer, the Sun owners agreed to sell the team for a record $325 million to a group led by Steve Pagliuca, a former minority owner of the Celtics, with plans to move the franchise to Boston. However, the WNBA blocked this deal, clarifying that relocation decisions rest with the league’s Board of Directors rather than individual teams. Preference is being given to cities that have previously gone through the expansion process over Boston.
The Sun ownership also considered using funds tied up with the state of Connecticut to buy a minority stake in the team, but those talks have been delayed. The objective is to finalize these matters before WNBA free agency begins, though the start date remains uncertain as the league and the players’ union negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. Recently, the WNBA Players Association authorized a strike if necessary.
Fan Take: This potential move signals a strong push to revive professional women’s basketball in Houston, a city with a rich WNBA legacy. Bringing the Connecticut Sun back could rejuvenate fan interest and expand the league’s footprint, representing a significant step forward for women’s sports.
