Connecticut Sun has thrived in a small market. But where does the franchise fit in an evolving WNBA?

That’s why the Mohegan Tribe purchased the WNBA’s Orlando Miracle and relocated the franchise to its resort casino in rural Eastern Connecticut in 2002, bringing a major-league professional franchise to the state but in a location distant from urban centers.

Click here to read the story at ctinsider.com.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think the WNBA is “evolving” (as suggested by the headline of this news story)?
2. The league has seen significant increases in popularity over the last several years. Why do you think that is?
3. How can the league capitalize on that increase in popularity?
4. What does it mean when we talk about “market size” in team sports?
5. Why is market size important in team sports?
6. What is “expansion” in team sports?
7. Why do you think the WNBA is considering expansion?
8. This news story suggests talk of WNBA expansion is centered on major metropolitan markets. What does that mean?
9. What does it mean for a professional sports team to provide fans with a quality product?
10. Why is that important if a franchise wants to be successful on and off the playing field?
11. Why is marketing important to a franchise like the Connecticut Sun?
12. According to this story, how has the Sun franchise managed to build a loyal following, despite playing in a small market?
13. What is branding?
14. What is rebranding?
15. According to this story, the Sun relocated and rebranded in 2003. Where was its previous location and what was the team called?
16. Do you think the franchise has benefited from the fandom surrounding the NCAA women’s basketball Connecticut Huskies? Why or why not?
17. What do you think the future holds for the Sun?
18. Why would the league set its sights on major metro areas for expansion when a franchise like the Sun has proven it can succeed in a smaller market?