The WNBA approved the relocation of the Connecticut Sun to Houston on Wednesday, May 14, 2026 [1], ahead of the 2027 season [1].
This move returns professional women's basketball to a city that hosted one of the league's most successful early franchises. By relocating an existing team rather than expanding, the league leverages the Fertitta family's purchase of the Sun to establish an immediate presence in the Texas market [2].
The announcement took place during a press conference at the Toyota Center in Houston [3]. The plan involves reviving the Houston Comets name, a historic brand in the WNBA [1]. However, the final branding remains uncertain. Some reports indicate that a trademark dispute may prevent the team from officially using the Comets name [4].
Former player and analyst Chiney Ogwumike reacted to the news during the announcement [3]. The relocation is intended to capitalize on the Houston market and restore a legacy franchise to its original home [2].
The Connecticut Sun will transition operations to Houston to prepare for the 2027 season [1]. The league's decision follows the acquisition of the franchise by the Fertitta family, who sought to bring the team to their home city [2]. While the WNBA has given the green light for the move, the legalities regarding the Comets trademark will likely determine if the team returns with its original identity or a new brand [4].
“The WNBA approved the relocation of the Connecticut Sun to Houston.”
The return of a team to Houston represents a strategic effort by the WNBA to reclaim a historic market. By relocating the Connecticut Sun, the league avoids the logistical hurdles of a full expansion while placing the team under the ownership of a high-profile local family. The potential trademark dispute over the 'Comets' name suggests that while the league wants the nostalgia of the original franchise, legal ownership of intellectual property may force a rebranding before the 2027 tip-off.
