The Connecticut Sun are set to begin their revamped 2025 season against the Washington Mystics on Sunday at Mohegan Sun Arena, and fans will notice significant changes from previous years. The team, which has reached the WNBA semifinals for six consecutive seasons, faced a challenging offseason as they lost all five of their 2024 starters, including franchise standout Alyssa Thomas, who was traded to the Phoenix Mercury after an illustrious 11-year tenure with the Sun. All-Stars DeWanna Bonner and Brionna Jones have also moved on to the Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream, respectively, while DiJonai Carrington and Tyasha Harris were traded to the Dallas Wings.
The Sun’s offseason woes didn’t stop at player departures; they also said goodbye to head coach Stephanie White, who resigned to take the head coaching position with the Fever, leaving the franchise to navigate a new direction. As they step into the 2025 season with the WNBA’s longest active postseason streak of eight consecutive appearances, predictions largely suggest the Sun might struggle, given the numerous changes to their roster.
At the heart of the new season is a young and diverse roster featuring five rookies, alongside a handful of seasoned players, including former UConn star Olivia Nelson-Ododa, who is now the team’s longest-tenured player. Star guard Marina Mabrey, acquired via trade, is another key returner. Nelson-Ododa emphasized the importance of using training camp to build chemistry and establish identity as the team looks to prove critics wrong.
Highlighting the Sun’s roster overhaul is eight-time All-Star Tina Charles, a beloved figure in Connecticut basketball history. Having started her career with the Sun, Charles returns as an experienced leader with a wealth of accolades, including being the second-highest scorer in WNBA history. Her focus this season is on leadership and fostering a positive environment among her new teammates.
In a groundbreaking move for the organization, the Sun have hired French coach Rachid Meziane, marking the first time a head coach has come to the WNBA without prior league experience. Meziane, who led his team in France to a championship last season, is tasked with integrating a European playing style, aiming to enhance the team’s offensive flow and pace. Despite facing challenges, including missing players due to injuries and personal matters, Meziane remains optimistic about the team’s journey this season.
As the Sun prepare for their season opener, they face a Mystics team that also contends with its own injury issues. The game’s outcome may not define the entire season, as both teams are in the process of building and adapting to new dynamics. However, it is clear that the Sun are determined to embrace the upcoming challenges and demonstrate their resilience as they begin this fresh chapter in franchise history.
With a focus on hard work, respect, and humility, the Sun hope to redefine themselves and carve out a new legacy in the league. Fans can catch the opening game at 1 p.m. on Sunday at Mohegan Sun Arena or watch it on NBC Sports Boston and WNBA LeaguePass.