Houston Comets Return! Fertitta Acquires Connecticut Sun for Record $300 Million

The sale of the Connecticut Sun to Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta for $300 million is subject to approval by the WNBA Board of Governors. The franchise will play its upcoming season in Connecticut before relocating to Houston and reclaiming the Comets name in 2027. This deal marks a significant milestone in league history, setting a new sales record for a WNBA team.

Jen Rizzotti, president of the Sun, expressed regret at not being able to remain in the region, but is focused on making this season the best possible. The acquisition ends the team's 23-year run in New England, after they moved to Connecticut from Orlando in 2003.

Houston had previously expressed interest in buying the team, raising its bid to $250 million, similar to the expansion fees paid by Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia. The $300 million sale price exceeds the $325 million offer from a group led by Steve Pagliuca, a minority owner of the Celtics, who sought to move the franchise to Boston. The WNBA blocked this deal, arguing that relocation decisions are the responsibility of the Board of Governors.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced that Houston would be the next city to receive a team during a press conference to announce the three new expansion teams. The league has been adding new owners with NBA ties, such as Golden State and the teams joining this season.

The announcement of the deal provides clarity to the franchise, especially in relation to planning for potential free agents who could sign with the Sun next month. Sun general manager Morgan Tuck will be able to evaluate the salary cap situation and build around the established young core. The new WNBA collective bargaining agreement requires teams to have top-notch facilities, similar to those of NBA franchises.

The arrival of new owners with NBA connections and the new collective bargaining agreement reflect the growth and professionalization of the WNBA.

The Houston Comets, one of the original WNBA franchises, dominated the league by winning the first four championships from 1997 to 2000. The franchise disbanded after the 2008 season. Patrick Fertitta, Rockets alternate governor, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the Comets back to Houston, highlighting the city's championship history and the banners hanging in the Toyota Center.

The last time a WNBA team moved cities was in 2017, when the Las Vegas Aces relocated from San Antonio. Jen Rizzotti acknowledged the support of the Mohegan Tribe, which supported the team during difficult times for the league, and thanked the owners for their support for over two decades.

This move represents an important milestone for the WNBA, with the arrival of new owners and the focus on the modernization of facilities. The acquisition of the Sun by Fertitta and the return of the Comets highlight the growing appeal and investment in women's basketball. The league is experiencing significant growth, attracting owners with NBA ties and setting a new standard for franchises.

The return of the Comets and Fertitta's investment promise a new era of success and excitement for women's basketball in Houston.