Connecticut Sun: A Dominant Force in the WNBA

History of the Connecticut Sun

The Connecticut Sun was established in 1999 as the Orlando Miracle, one of the original eight teams in the WNBA. The team played in Orlando for four seasons before relocating to Connecticut in 2003. The Sun played their home games at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, which has a seating capacity of over 9,000.

Since their relocation, the Sun have become a dominant force in the WNBA, making the playoffs in 11 of their 18 seasons. The team has won three conference titles and has appeared in the WNBA Finals three times (2004, 2005, and 2019).

Notable Players and Coaches

The Connecticut Sun have had several notable players throughout their history, including Nykesha Sales, who was the team's first-ever draft pick in 1999. Sales played for the Sun for 11 seasons and is the franchise's all-time leader in points, rebounds, and steals.

Other notable players include Katie Douglas, who played for the Sun from 2001 to 2007 and was a three-time WNBA All-Star, and Tina Charles, who played for the Sun from 2010 to 2013 and was the WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2010.

The Sun have also had several notable coaches, including Mike Thibault, who coached the team from 2003 to 2012 and led them to two WNBA Finals appearances. Curt Miller, the team's current head coach, has been with the Sun since 2016 and has led them to two playoff appearances.

Recent Success and Future Outlook

In recent years, the Connecticut Sun have experienced significant success, winning the WNBA Commissioner's Cup in 2021 and making the playoffs in 2020 and 2021. The team has a strong core of players, including DeWanna Bonner, Alyssa Thomas, and Brionna Jones, and is expected to be a contender in the WNBA for years to come.

The Sun have also been at the forefront of the WNBA's growth and popularity, with games televised nationally on ESPN and CBS Sports Network. The team has also been involved in several high-profile matchups, including a 2020 game against the Los Angeles Sparks that drew a record-breaking crowd of over 10,000 fans.

What to Watch Next

As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity, the Connecticut Sun are expected to be a major player in the league for years to come. With a strong core of players and a talented coaching staff, the Sun are poised to make another deep playoff run in 2023.

Fans can catch the Sun in action at the Mohegan Sun Arena, which offers a variety of ticket packages and promotions throughout the season. Check availability for upcoming games and be a part of the excitement.