Senator Warns WNBA About the Future of the Sun
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal has sent a letter to the WNBA, expressing his concern about the ongoing negotiations for the ownership of the Connecticut Sun. The senator warns that any attempt by the league to interfere in the negotiations could result in violations of federal antitrust laws. Blumenthal, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and former Attorney General of Connecticut, has made it clear that he will demand investigations and actions from the relevant federal authorities if the WNBA takes actions that hinder negotiations in Connecticut. This letter arises after months of conflict between the WNBA and the Mohegan tribe, owner of the Sun since 2003. The tribe has been exploring investment options for the team, receiving offers that would include relocating the team to Boston or Hartford, with a total sale of the franchise for $325 million. However, the league has indicated that it does not consider either offer acceptable, arguing that the cities that have gone through the expansion process would have priority. Any sale and relocation must be approved by the Board of Governors. The WNBA has also offered to buy the Sun for $250 million, which would allow the league to relocate the team to the market of its choice. The tribe has not accepted this offer, considering it below market value.According to reports, the property is in talks with the state of Connecticut about a proposal in which state funds would acquire a minority stake in the franchise. Under this proposal, games would be played in both Hartford and Uncasville, where the team currently plays, and a practice facility would be built in Hartford. The deal would involve a valuation exceeding the league’s $250 million offer. Blumenthal has highlighted the successful history of the Sun in the state, arguing that the state proposal “fully ensures the continued commercial and professional success of the Connecticut Sun and addresses the WNBA’s expansion concerns.” The senator also highlighted Hartford’s ability to attract fans, mentioning the successful UCONN men’s and women’s college basketball games, as well as NCAA Tournament games. Furthermore, he noted that the team’s relocation would leave New England without a WNBA team and disrupt the stability and growth that the Sun have achieved in the state. The tribe and the league are expected to meet soon to discuss future options.Any attempt by the WNBA to use its considerable governing and market power over the Connecticut Sun to limit or dictate negotiations with the state of Connecticut could be an unreasonable restraint of trade and interference with the market that would violate federal antitrust laws.
Senator Richard Blumenthal
