The Connecticut Sun history reflects a legacy of determination and skill in the WNBA. Since relocating from Orlando in 2003, the Connecticut Sun basketball team has built a reputation for consistency, star talent, and passionate fans. With multiple Finals appearances, the franchise continues to shape women’s professional basketball with its competitive spirit and strong culture.
Established
1999
City
Orlando – Connecticut
League History
1999 – Present / Women’s National Basketball Association
Team History
2003 – Present / Connecticut Sun
1999 – 2002 / Orlando Miracle
Nickname
Sun – The Connecticut Sun is one of the most successful teams in the WNBA and has been around since 2003. But did you know that their name has an interesting origin story? Let's take a look at how this team got its nickname.
Connecticut Sun Origin
In 2002, when the Mohegan Tribe was awarded a franchise to play in Uncasville, Connecticut, they wanted to choose a name that would honor their heritage and location. After much deliberation, they decided on the “Sun” as it symbolized light and energy - essential for any sports team! The logo features two feathers which are common symbols among many Native American tribes, including Mohegan; these feathers represent strength and courage - qualities all athletes need on game day!
This unique combination of symbolism makes perfect sense for such an iconic WNBA franchise like the Connecticut Sun. Not only does it pay tribute to local history, but it also inspires players each time they step onto the court wearing those famous orange jerseys!
Championship
WNBA Championships 0
Arena
2003 – Present / Mohegan Sun Arena
*Orlando*
1999 – 2002 / TD Waterhouse Centre
Owner
2003 – Present / Mohegan Sun
1999 – 2002 / RDV Sports, Inc.
- 2003
- 2004
- 2012
- 2019
- 2021
- 2022
-
Sun Team Creation
Before the franchise relocated to Connecticut in 2003, the team operated as the Orlando Miracle. After the 2002 season, the NBA sold off all of the WNBA franchises to the operators of the respective teams, which placed the league in the middle of team contractions, relocations, and potential labor strife. Since Magic ownership was no longer interested in retaining the ... -
Connecticut Sun won their first Eastern Conference title
On September 19, 2004 — The Sun clinch their first-ever regular season Eastern Conference title with a win at home versus the Indiana Fever. -
Tina Charles 2012 MVP
Tina Charles was named the 2012 MVP of the WNBA, winning 25 of 41 first-place votes. She led the league in the number of double-doubles recorded and set the mark for the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 900, 1,000, and 1,100 rebounds. -
Connecticut Sun reached their third WNBA Finals
In 2019: The Sun reached their third WNBA Finals, led by Jonquel Jones and Courtney Williams, but fell short against the Washington Mystics in five games. -
The Sun secured the top seed in the playoffs
In 2021: The Sun had their best regular season ever, finishing with a 26-6 record and securing the top seed in the playoffs. They also had three All-Stars: Jonquel Jones, DeWanna Bonner and Brionna Jones. Jonquel Jones won her second rebounding title and was named MVP for the first time. However, the Sun were upset by the Chicago Sky in ... -
The Sun hired Stephanie White as their new head coach
In 2022: The Sun hired Stephanie White as their new head coach, replacing Curt Miller who resigned after six seasons. They also re-signed Jonquel Jones and Jasmine Thomas, and acquired Natasha Howard from the New York Liberty.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Connecticut Sun History
The Connecticut Sun history began when the team was founded as the Orlando Miracle in 1999 before relocating to Connecticut in 2003 to become the Sun. Since then, the Connecticut Sun basketball franchise has grown into one of the WNBA’s most respected teams. Known for their consistency, the Sun have reached five WNBA Finals appearances but continue to pursue their first championship title, earning widespread recognition in the process.
Over the years, the Connecticut Sun history has been defined by elite players and unforgettable moments. Stars like Nykesha Sales, Taj McWilliams-Franklin, Katie Douglas, and Lindsay Whalen helped build the foundation of the Connecticut Sun basketball legacy. Today, leaders such as Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner carry that tradition forward, keeping the team in championship contention season after season.
The Connecticut Sun basketball team has also excelled off the court through strong community engagement and charitable initiatives across Connecticut and beyond. This dedication to social responsibility has strengthened their fan base and made the franchise a model of leadership in women’s sports.
Sun Achievements
In terms of achievements, the Connecticut Sun history includes five Eastern Conference titles and consistent playoff appearances that reflect the team’s resilience and excellence. Their commitment to player development and competitive play has helped them remain among the WNBA’s top-tier franchises year after year.
Looking ahead, the Connecticut Sun basketball franchise is determined to add a long-awaited WNBA championship to its impressive record. With a mix of veteran leadership, rising stars, and a devoted fan base, the Sun’s story continues to grow as one of the most inspiring in women’s professional basketball.
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history