The Connecticut Sun retire Alyssa Thomas’ No. 25 jersey in an emotional pregame ceremony Friday night, honoring her impact on the franchise. Multiple outlets describe Thomas as central to the team’s success during her time in Connecticut.
Context for the honor includes Thomas’ 11-year run with the Sun, during which the team reaches two WNBA Finals and makes six straight playoff semifinals, according to the reporting. The ceremony also fits into a broader set of franchise recognitions this season. The Sun are relocating to Houston next year, and outlets say the team has been honoring former players and coaches as part of that transition.
While details of the tone and specific moments of the ceremony vary by outlet, all coverage centers on the same event: the franchise’s formal retirement of Thomas’ jersey number and recognition of her long-term contributions. The move to Houston provides the main shared rationale for why the retirements and tributes occur throughout the current season.
