WNBA fans in Houston have waited nearly two decades to see their city back on the league map. That wait is almost over.
The Connecticut Sun wrapped up their final season last week after 24 years in the league, and the franchise is moving to Houston for the 2027 season. The revived Houston Comets will play their first regular season games at the Toyota Center, and the franchise is already making plans for its first full season back in the city.
The original Houston Comets folded in 2008 after twelve years of operation from 1997 through 2008, which included four championship runs. Now the team is returning with a new identity and a roster that includes four new players.
Griner’s Return to Houston
The biggest name in the mix is Britney Griner, the Houston native who has the opportunity to become a free agent this offseason. Griner signed a one-year contract with the Sun earlier this year, but she has the option to leave when that deal expires.
If Griner opts to leave, she could return to her hometown team. The Comets have already started building their roster, and a Houston-born star would give the franchise instant credibility.
Griner spoke to the media after the team’s final home game on Sept. 24, reflecting on the end of an era in Connecticut.
“Connecticut knows basketball, that’s for sure,” she said. “It was a lot of sad faces after that game. It was definitely an emotional game.”
Her comments captured the moment for a franchise that has spent more than two decades in the league.
The Sun’s Final Farewell
The Sun’s final game was a difficult one for everyone involved. President Jennifer Rizzotti addressed fans through tears after the team’s last contest.
“No matter what happens from here, this team as they move on to the next chapter of their careers, the success that all of them have in their future — you will always be a part of that, always,” Rizzotti said.
Rizzotti and General Manager Morgan Tuck are relocating with the team to Houston. The move means the front office leadership is staying intact as the franchise transitions to a new city.
The transition is not just about changing jerseys. It is about rebuilding a fan base in a market that has been without WNBA basketball for nearly two decades.
Season Tickets Are Already On Sale
Basketball fans in Houston do not have to wait until 2027 to get involved. The Comets are selling season tickets online at HoustonComets.com.
The team is also making local appearances throughout October to build buzz before the regular season begins. The schedule includes a stop at Katy Pride at Bear Creek Rodeo Arena on Oct. 3 and an appearance at Discovery Green on Oct. 24.
These events give Houston fans a chance to see the team in person before the first regular season game. The road shows are a smart strategy for a franchise that is still finding its footing in a new city.
What Comes Next for the Comets
The franchise’s preparation for the 2027 season is taking shape, but the full picture is not yet complete. The Comets will need to finalize their roster, secure sponsorships, and build a fan base from scratch.
Here is what the franchise needs to do between now and the start of the 2027 season:
- Confirm Griner’s status as a free agent and work out her contract situation.
- Complete the roster with the remaining four new players.
- Secure sponsorships and marketing partners for the Toyota Center home games.
- Continue the local outreach with October appearances and other community events.
- Build a ticket base through season ticket sales.
Each step matters, but the biggest unknown is Griner’s contract status. Her decision will affect the Comets’ plans for the coming season.
Why Griner Matters
Griner is more than a hometown favorite. She is a two-time defensive player of the year, and her presence would give the Comets immediate credibility.
Having her in Houston would put a marquee name on the franchise from day one. She would be the face of the team and a reason for fans to buy tickets.
Her presence would also connect the new team to the history of the original Comets. The franchise had four championship runs during its twelve-year run.
The Road to 2027
The Comets are not starting from nothing. They have a history, a city that has waited a long time to bring the league back, and a roster being built.
The franchise has a solid foundation to build on. The challenge is execution, and the next few months will show whether the Comets can deliver on the promise of their return.
The October appearances are a good start. They put the team in front of fans who have not seen professional women’s basketball in Houston in nearly two decades.
The season ticket sales are another positive sign. Fans are showing interest, and the franchise is responding by giving them ways to connect.
| Event | Location |
|---|---|
| Katy Pride | Bear Creek Rodeo Arena, Oct. 3 |
| Discovery Green appearance | Oct. 24 |
The road to 2027 is long, but the destination is clear. The Houston Comets are coming home, and the city is ready to welcome them back.
Source material: “Houston Comets’ return takes shape as franchise prepares for 2027 WNBA season,” Houston Public Media.
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