WNBA fans’ expansion wish is still very much alive despite missed bid in the summer

The Las Vegas Aces have secured their third championship in four years, solidifying their status as a WNBA dynasty comparable to historical teams like the Houston Comets, Detroit Shock, and Minnesota Lynx. Among these, only the Lynx remain in their original city and name, highlighting the changes in the league over time.

The Detroit Shock were relocated to Tulsa in 2009 and later became the Dallas Wings in 2015, while the Houston Comets folded in 2008, disappointing fans. With the WNBA experiencing growth and increased popularity, there has been a resurgence of fan interest in bringing a team back to Houston, fueled by nostalgia for the Comets' legacy.

Despite this, the WNBA has not granted Houston an expansion team, instead opting for new franchises in cities like Toronto, Portland, Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia. However, reports from NBA insider Jake Fischer suggest that Houston is a leading candidate for the potential relocation of the Connecticut Sun, should the team be moved from its current location at the Mohegan Sun casino.

The Connecticut Sun originated from the Orlando Miracle in 2003 after being purchased by the Mohegan Tribe, and the current owners are now considering selling the team. Initial relocation proposals included moves to Boston or Hartford, but the league rejected these, emphasizing that cities that have applied for expansion should take priority.

Houston was home to one of the WNBA's original eight franchises and the league's first dynasty, led by players like Cynthia Cooper, Tina Thompson, and Sheryl Swoopes, who won the first four championships. If the Sun were to relocate to Houston, it would not be the same franchise as the Comets, but it would still generate excitement among local fans, especially those who remember the league's early days.