By Tiffany Williams –
With so changes during the off-season, the Connecticut Sun has embarked on a substantial organizational overhaul aimed at revitalizing the franchise. In a span of just a few months, the team parted ways with their esteemed Coach of the Year, Stephanie White, and reassigned their General Manager, signaling a significant shift in direction. To infuse new energy into the franchise, they promoted Morgan Tuck, a promising talent in the front office with deep-rooted connections to the team, to the role of General Manager. Following this pivotal change, they hired Rachid Meziane as their new head coach, and assembled an entirely new coaching staff around him, which includes Roneeka Hodges, who recently celebrated a championship victory with the Liberty.
Such drastic changes at the organization’s helm usually indicate one of two strategic paths: a rapid transition towards championship contention with fresh leadership or a more calculated rebuild. Given that the Sun have lost all five of their starters from the previous season, the latter option seems to be the prevailing strategy.
The integration of new players such as Marina Mabrey, Jacy Sheldon, Olivia Nelson-Ododa, Tina Charles, and Rayah Marshall—combined with exciting rookies like Aneesah Morrow (once healthy) and Saniya Rivers (when available)—has created a fresh dynamic. The preseason matchups against formidable opponents, including the Seattle Storm and New York Liberty, provided essential opportunities to observe how effectively this new roster could develop chemistry on the court, manage ball movement, and execute defensive strategies in transition. These games also allowed the coaching staff to assess player dynamics, evaluate potential playmakers, identify emerging leadership roles, and pinpoint breakout contributions that could secure rotation minutes.
In particular, the preseason games marked Meziane’s inaugural experience coaching within a WNBA environment, providing invaluable insights regardless of the stakes.
During their first preseason matchup, the Connecticut Sun faced off against the Seattle Storm, suffering a 79-59 loss in their opening game of the 2025 season. The match was significant as it marked the debut of nine players in a Sun uniform, including five rookies who experienced their first taste of competition at the professional level.
Veteran forward Tina Charles made a notable return to Connecticut, leading the Sun’s scoring efforts with a commendable 13 points, complemented by three rebounds, one assist, one steal, and two blocks—all achieved within just 20 minutes on the floor.
Haley Peters also played a crucial role, contributing 11 points, four rebounds, one assist, and two steals in 25 minutes, showcasing her shooting prowess by hitting three of the Sun’s five three-point field goals with a perfect 3/3 shooting mark from beyond the arc. Rookie Amy Okonkwo further rounded out the double-digit scorers for Connecticut, adding 10 points, four rebounds, and one assist in 16 minutes of action during her first preseason game.
The statistics from the game painted a challenging picture for the Sun. They managed to shoot only 32.3% (21/65) from the field, while the Storm exhibited superior efficiency with a shooting percentage of 48.3% (29/60). Both teams struggled to find their rhythm from long range, with Connecticut shooting 25% (5/20) and Seattle marginally better at 31.2% (5/16). The Storm also established dominance on the boards, out-rebounding the Sun 42-28, although Connecticut excelled in steals, leading that category 14-10. Seattle outscored Connecticut in the paint, 46-28, and on the fast break, 11-6, while Connecticut managed a slight advantage in second-chance points, 18-15.
In their second and final preseason matchup, the Sun rebounded effectively, clinching a 94-86 victory over the New York Liberty in Brooklyn. This victory marked a significant turnaround, concluding the 2025 preseason with a 1-1 record as they prepared to head into regular-season action this Sunday Sunday.
Once again, Tina Charles led the scoring for Connecticut, racking up an impressive 17 points, six rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 24 minutes on the court. Her shooting performance included 6/15 from the field and a flawless 4/4 from the free-throw line. Jacy Sheldon made a strong impact in her first starting role, contributing 16 points, with an impressive 3/4 from beyond the arc.
Olivia Nelson-Ododa also shined, registering 15 points, a team-high seven rebounds, one steal, and two blocks, while Marina Mabrey, returning from her absence in the first preseason game, added 13 points, three assists, and one steal in 19 minutes.
In this matchup, the Sun demonstrated marked improvement in shooting efficiency, hitting 48.5% (32/66) from the field, while the Liberty delivered a highly efficient performance at 56.9% (33/58). Both teams succeeded in connecting on 11 three-point field goals, but Connecticut achieved a higher shooting percentage at 42.3% (11/26), compared to New York’s 47.8% (11/23).
Defensively, the Sun effectively pressured the Liberty into committing 18 turnovers, converting those mistakes into an impressive 29 points, thereby showcasing their ability to exploit opponents’ errors. Connecticut also gained a decisive advantage in rebounding, with a tally of 32-23. Both teams distributed the ball equally well, each recording 24 assists. Notably, Connecticut dominated in second-chance opportunities with a commanding 23-10 advantage, ultimately providing a promising glimpse into their potential as they gear up for the regular season.
In an additional development, the Connecticut Sun signed Bria Hartley to a training camp contract last Sunday. Hartley, a standout player from the University of Connecticut, was selected with the seventh overall pick in the 2014 WNBA Draft by the Seattle Storm. However, on draft day, she was traded to the Washington Mystics, marking the beginning of her professional journey. After her initial stint with the Mystics, Hartley returned to the Sun for the 2022 season, where she played three games before suffering a season-ending ACL injury. Over her nine-year career in the WNBA, she has made significant contributions to several teams, including Washington (2014-2016), New York Liberty (2017-2019), Phoenix Mercury (2020-2021), and Indiana Fever (2022).
In 2025, Hartley showcased her talents in the Athletes Unlimited season, where she averaged an impressive 15.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Her performance earned her the distinction of finishing tenth overall on the league’s leaderboard, highlighting her skills and versatility on the court. Beyond her achievements in the WNBA, Hartley has also built a successful overseas career, most notably playing with the esteemed Turkish club Galatasaray during the 2023-2024 season.
Hartley’s accolades extend to her collegiate career, where she was part of the University of Connecticut’s program that clinched two NCAA national championships in 2013 and 2014. In addition to her championship titles, she was selected to the prestigious 2011-12 WBCA/State Farm All-America Team, becoming the 15th player in UConn history to receive this honor and only the fourth sophomore from the school to be recognized. Hartley’s journey reflects resilience and talent, making her a recognized figure in women’s basketball.
On Thursday, the Connecticut Sun finalized their opening day roster for the 2025 season, featuring two returning players from the previous season: veteran guard Marina Mabrey and fourth-year center Olivia Nelson-Ododa. Mabrey is poised to kick off her second season with the Sun, while Nelson-Ododa prepares for her third.
The roster also welcomes a host of significant new additions through off-season trades and free agency. Notably, the eight-time WNBA All-Star Tina Charles makes her much-anticipated return to the Sun after previously starting her career in Connecticut back in 2010. Charles, known for her scoring abilities and versatility, will undoubtedly bring valuable experience to the squad.
Also rejoining the Sun is Bria Hartley, who will be making her first WNBA appearance since playing three games for Connecticut in 2022 before suffering a season-ending ACL injury. She will be looking to showcase her skills once again on the court. Additionally, the team has introduced several new players including guards Lindsay Allen and Jacy Sheldon, forwards Robyn Parks and Haley Peters, and center Kariata Diaby, all of whom will be wearing the Sun jersey for the first time this season.
The opening day roster also features the Sun’s 2025 WNBA Draft picks: Aneesah Morrow (No. 7), Saniya Rivers (No. 8), and Rayah Marshall (No. 25). Furthermore, the team has a temporary suspension for their 2024 No. 10 overall pick, Leila Lacan, due to overseas obligations. However, the team will be missing Saniya Rivers who is unavailable for Sunday’s home opener for personal reasons, while Aneesah Morrow is sidelined due to a right ankle injury.
The Connecticut Sun tip off their 2025 regular season at home on Sunday against the Washington Mystics. The Mystics, who opened their season on Friday night with a thrilling 94-90 victory against the Atlanta Dream at CareFirst Arena in Washington, D.C., showcased their talent in this early matchup. Leading the charge for the Mystics was Brittney Sykes, who scored 22 points despite shooting 6 of 20 from the field and hitting just 1 of 6 from three-point range. Additionally, rookies Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen made their marks in their WNBA debuts, contributing 19 and 14 points, respectively.
In their preseason games, the Mystics faced challenges, losing to the Indiana Fever 79-74 in a tightly contested overtime match and succumbing to the Atlanta Dream 80-70. The Mystics’ roster is headlined by former UConn standouts Aaliyah Edwards and Stephanie Dolson, alongside veteran guard Brittney Sykes and the imposing 6-5 forward-center Shakira Austin. Washington also bolstered their roster by drafting four promising rookies: Sonia Citron (No. 3), Kiki Iriafen (No. 4), Georgia Amoore (No. 6), and Lucy Olsen (No. 23). This season marks the debut of Head Coach Sydney Johnson as he takes the reins in Washington.
Historically, the Sun have had a strong performance against the Mystics, sweeping the regular season series in 2024 with a perfect 4-0 record. Entering Sunday’s matchup, Connecticut has won 14 of the last 15 regular season games against Washington since the start of the 2020 season, including an impressive nine consecutive victories.
In Sunday’s matchup against the Washington Mystics, the Connecticut Sun will need to rely heavily on their significant strengths, particularly their veteran leadership.
Tina Charles, a seasoned player with a wealth of experience, brings not only her elite scoring ability in the post but also invaluable leadership qualities. Her role will be crucial in guiding a younger roster through the early challenges of the season, providing a steadying influence during critical moments. Alongside her, Marina Mabrey and Bria Hartley add further veteran poise to the backcourt, creating a solid foundation for offensive stability and strategic execution.
The Sun also showcase youthful energy and depth with players like Jacy Sheldon, Olivia Nelson-Ododa, and Rayah Marshall, who bring defensive intensity, athleticism, and versatile skill sets. Sheldon’s quickness and ability to shift momentum can be game-changing, while Nelson-Ododa and Marshall’s defensive capabilities can help disrupt opponents’ offenses.
Another significant strength for Connecticut lies in their defensive abilities and relentless hustle. During their preseason showdown against the Liberty, they forced a staggering 18 turnovers, converting those mistakes into 29 points. This trend reflects a team that is not only capable of applying pressure but is also adept at capitalizing on opponents’ errors. Their strong rebounding efforts and dominance in securing second-chance opportunities were pivotal in their victory against New York.
Moreover, Connecticut’s balanced scoring potential stands out as another asset. In their second preseason game, no fewer than four players reached double figures, indicating a diversified offensive strategy rather than reliance on any single star player. This depth can make it more difficult for opponents to game plan.
However, Connecticut’s biggest challenge heading into this game is the lack of established chemistry. With nine new players, a brand-new coaching staff, and limited time together, the team is still in the process of figuring out how to play cohesively. This could lead to inconsistencies in offensive execution, particularly in half-court sets where timing and synergy are crucial.
Inexperience at key positions also poses a challenge, as multiple rookies and new players in the rotation increase the risk of defensive breakdowns and questionable shot selection when the pressure mounts. The absences of key players such as Saniya Rivers and Aneesah Morrow further limit the Sun’s depth and overall explosiveness, especially in their season opener.
Additionally, offensive efficiency remains a concern. The Sun shot only 32.3% from the field in their first preseason game, indicating room for improvement. While they showed some offensive progress against New York, maintaining that consistency will be vital. They were notably outscored on fast breaks by Seattle (11-6), suggesting potential vulnerabilities in their transition defense that could be exploited.
To secure a victory against the Mystics, Connecticut must pay close attention to the two-way impact of Brittney Sykes. Even when her shooting isn’t at its best, Sykes is aggressive, able to draw fouls, and capable of creating plays on both ends of the floor. Limiting her aggressive drives to the basket will be essential for Connecticut’s defensive strategy.
The Mystics also present formidable rookie threats. Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen combined for an impressive 33 points in their debut, demonstrating a remarkable comfort level at the professional level. Both players are capable of scoring from all three levels of the court, making them significant challenges that Connecticut must prepare for.
Furthermore, the Sun needs to be mindful of Washington’s strong frontcourt matchups. Shakira Austin (standing at 6’5″) and Stephanie Dolson, another standout UConn alum, bring not only size but also rebounding prowess and scoring ability. Controlling the glass and avoiding foul trouble against these two will be critical for Connecticut’s success.
Connecticut can secure a win in several ways: by dominating the rebounding battle, applying pressure and forcing turnovers, establishing Tina Charles early in the game, pushing the pace in transition, and maintaining a controlled offensive tempo.
In their previous game against New York, Connecticut out-rebounded their opponents by nine and excelled in converting second-chance opportunities. Replicating this effort against Washington’s tall front line will be crucial.
Additionally, the Sun should target the rookies using full-court pressure and aggressive traps, turning defensive stops into offensive opportunities to mitigate any half-court offensive growing pains.
Feeding Charles in the post will be essential to attract double-teams, which can help open perimeter looks for Mabrey and Sheldon, ultimately wearing down Washington’s bigs over the course of the game.
Connecticut must aggressively pursue rebounds and capitalize on turnovers; the Mystics’ defensive weaknesses were apparent when they allowed 94 points to Atlanta, indicating vulnerabilities that can be exploited in fast-break scenarios.
Finally, the Sun should aim to avoid letting Washington turn the game into a track meet. Controlling the pace of play, executing offensive sets deliberately, and exploiting mismatches will be vital to their success.
While the Sun continue to develop their identity as a cohesive unit, they have demonstrated the necessary tools to compete effectively—particularly if they lean into their defensive strengths, rebounding capabilities, and the leadership provided by their veterans. Beating the Mystics will depend on neutralizing Sykes, disrupting the rhythm of the rookies, and taking advantage of any cohesion issues Washington may face with their own young core and new head coach.
The Connecticut Sun home opener against the Washington Mystics is Sunday, May 18 at 1:00pm ET at Mohegan Sun Arena. The game will air on NBC Sports Boston, with Brendan Glasheen, Edona Thaqi and Terrika Foster-Brasby on the call, and is also available to stream live on WNBA League Pass. The Sun’s Home Opener contest is presented by TD Bank.