Celtics Owner Set to Acquire Connecticut Sun, Relocates Team

In a groundbreaking move for women’s basketball, Boston Celtics minority owner Steve Pagliuca is reportedly poised to purchase the Connecticut Sun, with plans to relocate the franchise to Boston by 2027. This ambitious acquisition, as detailed by CBS Sports, comes with a staggering price tag of $325 million, marking it as the highest valuation for a women’s sports team in the United States to date.

The Mohegan Tribe, the current owners of the Sun, have been exploring a sale for some time, and Pagliuca’s proposal not only meets their expectations but also reflects the growing financial viability and popularity of women’s sports. Notably, Pagliuca has expressed intentions to invest an additional $100 million into a new practice facility in Boston, further solidifying his commitment to elevating the Sun’s profile in the city.

The Sun’s prospective home games are slated to take place at TD Garden, the same venue where they successfully hosted two games over the past two seasons, both of which sold out. Pagliuca’s willingness to have the Sun share the arena with the Celtics indicates a strong cooperative spirit between the organizations, as confirmed by sources from CBS Sports. However, the transition may require the Sun to play some early-season games in Providence, Rhode Island, in 2027 to circumvent potential scheduling conflicts with the Celtics.

The potential move to Boston could reshape the landscape of the WNBA, especially with the league’s ongoing efforts to expand its footprint in new markets. With the addition of Boston, the league could see a significant increase in fan engagement and support, especially given the region’s robust sports culture. The success of the Sun’s games in Boston has likely played a crucial role in the Tribe’s decision to entertain Pagliuca’s offer, as the local market has shown a strong appetite for women’s basketball.

This impending acquisition not only underscores the financial growth of women’s sports but also highlights the increasing recognition of the WNBA’s potential as a major player in the sports industry. If the sale receives league approval, the Sun’s relocation could set a precedent for other teams considering similar moves, as the WNBA continues to explore its expansion opportunities.

As the narrative of women’s professional basketball evolves, the Celtics’ involvement may serve as a catalyst for further investment and interest in the league. The implications of this acquisition extend beyond just a new location; they signify a turning point in how women’s sports are perceived and valued in the broader sports marketplace.

With the league’s continued momentum and the commitment from Pagliuca, Boston could very well emerge as a vibrant hub for women’s basketball by 2027, enriching the local sports scene and inspiring future generations of female athletes.