Boston Celtics minority owner Steve Pagliuca has set his sights on a groundbreaking acquisition: the Connecticut Sun, with ambitious plans to relocate the WNBA franchise to Boston. This potential move marks a significant development in women’s professional sports and could reshape the league’s landscape.
The proposed deal involves Pagliuca reportedly agreeing to purchase the Connecticut Sun from the Mohegan Tribe for an unprecedented $325 million, establishing a new benchmark for women’s sports franchise valuations. Furthermore, the commitment includes an additional $100 million investment to construct a state-of-the-art practice facility, underscoring the serious intent behind the WNBA relocation effort.
If approved, the relocation could see the Connecticut Sun permanently establish its home in Boston by the 2027 season. This timeline indicates a calculated strategy to ensure a smooth transition and integration of the team into the vibrant Boston sports market.
However, the path to a WNBA relocation is not without its significant hurdles. Both the WNBA league office and its governors must grant their approval for the sale and subsequent move. Reports indicate a potential obstacle, as the league may prefer to reserve Boston as a prime candidate for a future WNBA expansion city in 2033.
Adding to the complexity, the WNBA possesses the authority to compel the Mohegan Tribe to sell the team to a Connecticut-based buyer, ensuring the franchise remains within the state. Despite this, the Tribe’s stated preference is to proceed with the sale to Steve Pagliuca and facilitate the team’s move elsewhere. This highlights a fascinating tension between league strategy and ownership desires.
On the brighter side for Boston, the Boston Celtics organization has reportedly expressed no objections to the Connecticut Sun potentially utilizing TD Garden as its future home court. This crucial collaboration could provide a ready-made venue for the relocated team, easing a major logistical challenge.
The Connecticut Sun, currently playing at Mohegan Sun Arena in Montville, has experienced a challenging season. After several years as a top contender in the league, the team has significantly underperformed this year, holding the WNBA’s worst record at 5-21, emphasizing a need for a potential fresh start.
This potential WNBA relocation represents more than just a change of address; it signifies a massive financial commitment to women’s sports and a strategic play to deepen Boston’s already rich sporting heritage. The integration of a WNBA franchise into such a prominent market could elevate the league’s profile significantly.
