Connecticut Sun sold to Celtics minority owner

The Connecticut Sun may relocate to Boston as part of a record sale agreement.

Connecticut Sun sale leads to potential relocation to Boston

Steve Pagliuca, a minority owner of the Boston Celtics, is set to purchase the Connecticut Sun for a record $325 million. Alongside this sale, he plans to invest an additional $100 million for a new practice facility in the Boston area. The Sun would move to the TD Garden by 2027. However, the league's governors must approve this relocation, which is complicated by the fact that nine other cities have already expressed interest in WNBA expansion teams. The Mohegan Tribe, current owners of the Sun, is reportedly eager to sell after a few successful games at TD Garden, which inspired some players to advocate for the move. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has also voiced her support, insisting that relocating the Sun would benefit both the team and the WNBA, creating a vibrant home for the team in what she calls the hub of New England.

The potential move of the Sun to Boston underscores the growing attention on the WNBA, particularly as demand for women’s sports surges. With the success of recent players and high-profile games drawing sellout crowds, the idea of integrating a WNBA franchise into a major market like Boston appears increasingly appealing. However, the league's desire to keep Boston available for future expansion adds a layer of complexity to the scenario. This situation encapsulates the tension between financial ambitions and league governance, raising questions about how best to balance team relocations with expansion goals.

Highlights

As negotiations unfold, the future of the Sun and the broader WNBA landscape remains uncertain.