Boston is on the precipice of a monumental shift in its renowned sports landscape, as a groundbreaking bid spearheaded by Celtics minority owner Steve Pagliuca aims to bring a WNBA team to the city by 2027. This ambitious proposal, confirmed by multiple sources to NBC Sports Boston’s Trenni Casey, represents the largest financial commitment ever made for a women’s sports team in American history, signaling a profound belief in the untapped potential of women’s professional basketball in a top-tier market.
The centerpiece of Pagliuca’s offer is a staggering $325 million bid to acquire the Connecticut Sun from the Mohegan Sun tribe, complemented by an additional $100 million dedicated to establishing a state-of-the-art practice facility. This substantial investment not only underscores the serious intent behind the initiative but also highlights a commitment to providing WNBA athletes with world-class resources, aligning with the ongoing efforts by players to elevate the league’s standards and infrastructure.
Crucially, the vision extends beyond mere acquisition; the proposal includes relocating the Connecticut Sun to Boston, transforming it into a New England regional team that transcends city limits. This move is championed by the state, including Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, and has the full backing of the Boston Celtics organization and its new ownership. The widespread regional enthusiasm suggests this isn’t merely a personal ambition of Steve Pagliuca, but a collective desire to integrate a professional women’s basketball franchise into the fabric of the entire region.
Despite overwhelming local and regional support, including political endorsement, the WNBA league’s stance remains a significant hurdle. Sources indicate the league has expressed a preference for Boston to wait for a potential expansion franchise in 2033 or beyond, rather than facilitating an immediate relocation. This position has been met with contention by local observers who argue that delaying entry into a prime market like Boston could squander the current momentum and apex of the WNBA’s growth.
The undeniable passion for women’s basketball in Boston has been vividly demonstrated through recent events. The Connecticut Sun’s sold-out games at TD Garden, particularly a memorable contest against the Indiana Fever, have served as powerful testimonials to the market’s readiness. These events showcased not just a large attendance, but an electric atmosphere attracting diverse basketball fans, reaffirming Boston’s historical status as a fervent sports town with a rich basketball legacy.
Players themselves have voiced their approval, with Fever guard Sophie Cunningham expressing enthusiasm for playing in the city, recognizing the profound history within the TD Garden arena. The prospect of a permanent WNBA presence in Boston offers players the opportunity to compete in a major market with access to top-tier facilities, an aspiration many WNBA athletes actively pursue for the betterment of their careers and the league as a whole.
While nine other cities have formally applied for WNBA expansion, the Boston bid stands out due to its unprecedented financial commitment and robust regional backing. Although the final decision rests with the league, sustained pressure from government officials, fan bases, and players could potentially sway the WNBA’s current reluctance. The opportunity to establish a professional women’s sports team backed by a championship NBA franchise in a prime urban location near public transportation presents a compelling case for immediate approval, promising to further enrich Boston’s already vibrant sports culture.
