A significant shift is coming to the world of women’s basketball. After 23 years, the Mohegan Tribe will be relinquishing ownership of the Connecticut Sun, paving the way for the franchise to relocate to Houston by 2027, pending WNBA approval.
The decision, announced from Uncasville, Connecticut, wasn’t taken lightly. It followed a comprehensive evaluation of the team’s future, marking the end of an era for the Mohegan Tribe, who boldly became the WNBA’s first independent owner over two decades ago, bringing professional women’s basketball to their reservation.
Joe Soper, Corresponding Secretary for the Mohegan Tribal Council, expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support of the fans. He emphasized the remarkable impact the team and its players have had, not only on Mohegan Sun and the surrounding region, but also on the broader landscape of women’s sports.
The Connecticut Sun will complete the 2026 season in its current home before beginning the transition to Houston. As a farewell, the team plans to play regular season games in Hartford and Boston, offering fans one last chance to cheer them on locally.
Team President Jen Rizzotti acknowledged the emotional weight of the announcement, recognizing the deep connection between the team and its loyal fanbase. The organization is committed to honoring its legacy and finishing this final season with pride and dedication.
The sale is projected to generate approximately $300 million for Mohegan, with half payable immediately and the remainder by the end of 2026, contingent upon regulatory and league approvals. This infusion of capital arrives as Mohegan navigates a broader financial strategy.
This financial maneuver is part of a $1.2 billion refinancing package designed to bolster liquidity and restructure debt. The proceeds from the sale will accelerate these plans, allowing for debt reduction and strategic investments in Mohegan’s core assets.
According to Ari Glazer, Mohegan’s Chief Financial Officer, the sale represents a “step-function improvement” to the company’s financial structure, positioning it for sustained growth and stability in the years ahead.
The timing of this transition coincides with a period of growing momentum for the WNBA, with television viewership steadily increasing, signaling a bright future for the league and its athletes.
The move represents more than just a change in location; it’s a pivotal moment for both the Connecticut Sun and the Mohegan Tribe, marking the close of a historic chapter and the beginning of a new one.
