Connecticut Sun Explores Possible Sale and Relocation
Connecticut Sun President Jennifer Rizzotti revealed that the team’s ownership group is considering various strategic investment options, including a possible sale. The news, which has generated great anticipation, suggests a thorough analysis of the financial situation and the future of the franchise.
According to reports, the team has hired the investment bank Allen & Co. to conduct a detailed study. The expectation is a controlling sale, which could involve the relocation of the franchise.
The Sun have played in Uncasville, Connecticut, since 2003, when the Mohegan tribe acquired the franchise for $10 million and moved it from Orlando. Mohegan became the first non-NBA owner of a WNBA team, and the franchise was the first in the league to turn a profit.
The WNBA has not witnessed a team relocation since 2017, when the San Antonio Stars moved to Las Vegas under new ownership and became the Aces.
As an organization, Mohegan constantly evaluates strategic options, investments, and capital expenditures. The CT Sun have experienced monumental changes in the last 18 months and Mohegan is proud of the success, growing interest, and incredible community impact off the court. The WNBA overall has also seen immense growth in viewership and interest. These are fantastic trends for an incredible sport, with extremely dedicated and talented women.
Mohegan Statement
Rizzotti described Mohegan’s decision as a move by “responsible business owners,” indicating that they are evaluating all their operations, including the Connecticut Sun. The Sun’s president added that a final decision has not yet been made, nor has a timeline been established.
Rizzotti confirmed that “all options” are on the table, including the sale of minority stakes, as the Seattle Storm did recently to raise capital. Other possibilities include the sale of the franchise, but for the team to remain in the same city or state, as happened with the Atlanta Dream in 2021.
When asked if Mohegan can still support a WNBA contender, Rizzotti answered in the affirmative.
I’ve been here for four years. I think the tribe can support whatever they want, whatever decision they make. They do everything first class. They take pride in the guest experience and attention to detail and true investment the right way.
Jennifer Rizzotti
Mohegan’s decision comes at a time of rapid growth for the WNBA, where ownership groups are increasingly compelled to invest, including improvements for players. This is mainly manifested in the construction of dedicated practice facilities, creating competition among the league’s teams. Connecticut is one of the teams that has not yet announced plans for a training facility, and players currently practice at the Mohegan Sun Arena, their home court with a capacity of 8,910 people, or at the Mohegan Tribal Community and Government Center.
The Sun have been one of the most successful teams in the WNBA, reaching the playoffs in 16 of their 22 seasons in Connecticut and with six consecutive semifinal appearances. However, 2025 will mark a new era for the franchise, after losing their entire starting lineup during the offseason due to free agency or trades.
Rizzotti stated that the franchise “has been a desirable place to play” and that “there’s a reason why we’ve been good for two decades”, feeling that the roster turnover they experienced this offseason was more of a one-off issue than a recurring problem.
Although the long-term future of the franchise remains uncertain, the team will focus on preparing for the upcoming season, which begins on Sunday at home against the Washington Mystics.
Rizzotti and coach Rachid Meziane reiterated the joint effort to control what the team can control.
They have their job, and our job is to put the best product on the court. We trust that they will do their job and make the right decision that benefits the organization, the players, the coaches, and the staff in the future.
Tina Charles
