The Connecticut Sun desperately needed some positive news.
After opening the 2026 WNBA season with a disappointing 1-8 record, injuries have only added to the frustration. Few absences have been felt more than that of veteran center Brittney Griner, who has appeared in just three games this season.
That could be about to change.
Connecticut received encouraging news ahead of Saturday night’s matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks when Griner was left off the team’s official injury report. After missing four consecutive games with a right rib strain, all signs now point toward the nine-time All-Star making her return to the lineup.
For a franchise trying to stop an early-season spiral, the timing could not be better. The Sun have dropped eight of their first nine games and currently own one of the league’s worst records. While injuries are not the only reason for the slow start, Connecticut has rarely had its full roster available through the opening weeks of the season.
Griner’s absence has been especially noticeable in the paint, where her size, scoring ability and defensive presence have traditionally changed games.
Griner’s impact goes beyond the box score
Even in limited action this season, Griner has shown why she remains one of the most respected veterans in the WNBA. In her three appearances, the 35-year-old is averaging 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. Her most recent outing came on May 18 against the Portland Fire when she scored 16 points on 6-of-12 shooting before being sidelined by the rib injury.
The resume speaks for itself. Griner has been selected to nine All-Star Games, won two WNBA scoring titles, captured two Defensive Player of the Year awards and helped lead her team to a WNBA championship during a decorated professional career.
While Connecticut’s record won’t be fixed overnight, having Griner back on the floor instantly changes the outlook of the roster. The Sun will still be without Aaliyah Edwards, who remains in concussion protocol, but Griner’s expected return gives Connecticut a proven star around whom the offense can operate.
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A chance to build momentum against Los Angeles
Saturday’s game against Los Angeles suddenly carries added importance. For the Sun, it represents an opportunity to start climbing out of an early hole in the standings while finally getting one of their biggest stars back on the court.
For Griner, it’s a chance to put an injury-plagued start behind her and help stabilize a team searching for answers. Tipoff between Connecticut and Los Angeles is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET in Hartford.
If Griner is indeed back, the Sun may finally have a reason to believe better days are ahead.
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