Boston, Mass. — A group headed by Steve Pagliuca, a minority owner of the NBA’s Celtics, has reportedly entered into an agreement to purchase the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun for an unprecedented $325 million. Plans include relocating the franchise to Boston, but the team is not expected to make the move until the 2027 season.

Pagliuca, known for his extensive involvement in sports management, is also set to invest $100 million in a new practice facility for the team in Boston, according to a source familiar with the negotiations who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The deal still requires approval from the WNBA and its board of governors before it can be finalized.

The WNBA emphasized that decisions regarding team relocations rest with the Board of Governors and not individual owners. The Sun have already staged regular-season games at TD Garden for the past two seasons, including a notable matchup against the Indiana Fever earlier this year.

The league is in the midst of expanding its footprint, having already announced the addition of five new franchises over the next few years, with cities like Portland and Toronto set to join in 2026. Other cities, such as Cleveland and Detroit, are on track to get teams by 2029 and 2030, respectively. Boston, however, was not among the cities that submitted proposals for new franchises during this expansion phase.

The Mohegan Tribe currently owns the Connecticut Sun, having acquired the team from Orlando for just $10 million in 2003. This marked a significant milestone, as it was the first WNBA team to be operated by a non-NBA owner. The franchise has enjoyed success, consistently reaching the postseason and establishing itself as a profitable entity in the league.

Despite facing challenges this season, including the departure of key players, the Sun have maintained a reputation for competitiveness. Nevertheless, their current standing is less than ideal, with the team in last place and struggling at 5-21. A letter to season-ticket holders confirmed that the team would continue to play at its current venue next year, even amidst the ownership transition.

The ownership landscape in the WNBA has transformed recently, with increasing investments aimed at enhancing team facilities and player experiences. The Sun, however, have yet to announce any plans for a new training facility, often practicing at a local community center or the arena at the casino owned by the Mohegan Tribe.

As excitement builds around the proposed relocation, it remains to be seen how the WNBA will address Boston’s aspirations amidst ongoing expansion efforts. Pagliuca’s group, having expressed interest in bringing a WNBA team to Boston in the past, is now positioned to play a crucial role in potentially reshaping the league’s presence in the city.