Every Team in the league is ready with their ambitious project in the 2026 season. One team, the Connecticut Sun, might have different feelings altogether as the franchise will relocate to Houston following the sale at the start of the 2026 season. Aaliyah Edwards, one of the key players on the roster, showcased her talent and capability during the offseason and is now ready to deliver for her WNBA team.
Geno Auriemma expressed sadness over the franchise’s relocation decision, and the former UConn player also shares those sentiments. But instead of getting depressed, the news motivates her to do better.
Aaliyah Edwards To Play For ‘Connecticut’
When the Sun franchise acquired a Connecticut face midway through the 2025 season, the franchise was already having many troubles. The owners were focusing more on sales than development, and the team was losing games nearly every night. But now that the direction is clear, the forward is also aiming for a ‘better’ outcome in the season, for the people of Connecticut.
“It’s gonna be sad, but I’m gonna play for the city, play for the state, and really own the Connecticut Sun across my chest,” she said after the practice session at Mohegan Sun Arena.
Why UConn great Aaliyah Edwards is proud to wear Connecticut Sun uniform: 'Play for the state' https://t.co/uiN2s011L9
— Record-Journal (@Record_Journal) April 25, 2026
It’s interesting that the player garnered much speculation about the offseason move to an expansion team following her Toronto visit. She is now wholeheartedly looking to lift the team to a competitive position.
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On paper, the Suns made some smart moves, keeping their young core and building around them. Although there is uncertainty over the 26-year-old forward after the season, her performance would certainly benefit the team and herself in the future.
Aaliyah Edward Could Be The Leader For New Look Connecticut Sun
Following her acquisition in August 2025, the star could be a cornerstone leader of the Connecticut Sun for the 2026 season. The 6-foot-3 forward already showcased her high-level efficiency in the paint and tenacious defensive grit, and with that, Edwards can lead by anchoring the frontcourt, filling the void left by departing veteran talent.
Buckets on Buckets🫡 @AaliyahEdwards_ out here dropping career-highs on Game 1 of the season! pic.twitter.com/H2kdpe286i
— Unrivaled Basketball (@Unrivaledwbb) January 6, 2026
Her development, enhanced by off-season 3v3 competition, suggests a huge improvement in carrying the offensive burden and mid-range capabilities in 2026. Edwards will likely lead alongside a young, revamped core, including forward Aneesah Morrow and guard Saniya Rivers. The trio could lead a fast-paced, high-energy style of play, catching the opposition off guard at times.
More importantly, her familiarity with the Connecticut landscape, stemming from her standout collegiate career, positions her as the emotional leader for this rebuilding roster. Her ability to secure rebounds and initiate offense makes her the focal point of the Sun’s future, as they look to build a new playoff contender.