Connecticut Sun and Indiana Fever Thrill 19,156 Fans at TD Garden

BOSTON — On July 16, 2025, a sellout crowd of 19,156 spectators filled Boston's TD Garden, marking the second consecutive year that the venue hosted a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) game. The Indiana Fever emerged victorious with an 85-77 win over the Connecticut Sun, a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final minutes.

The atmosphere was electric as players from both teams expressed their excitement about playing in front of such a large audience. "It was an amazing experience," said Tina Charles, a star player for the Connecticut Sun. Despite the loss, she highlighted the significance of the event, stating, "It was a success, even though we didn't get the win." Natasha Howard of the Indiana Fever echoed those sentiments, expressing her surprise at the turnout and the historical significance of playing at TD Garden, a venue known for hosting numerous prestigious sports events.

The attendance at TD Garden represented the third-highest for a WNBA game this summer, only surpassed by two other matches featuring the Indiana Fever. Notably, Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown and other local sports figures such as Lucas Giolito from the Boston Red Sox and soccer legend Kristine Lilly were in attendance, further showcasing the event's appeal.

The Connecticut Sun, based in Uncasville, Connecticut, held their first game in Boston in August of the previous year, where they triumphed over the Los Angeles Sparks. Jen Rizzotti, president of the Sun, commented on the importance of connecting with the New England fan base. "The energy and enthusiasm from the New England market last season was phenomenal, and we're proud to continue building that momentum and connecting with our New England fan base," Rizzotti stated. She emphasized the mission of showcasing women's basketball on prominent platforms.

The crowd's enthusiasm leaned slightly towards the Fever, especially as the game progressed and Indiana pulled ahead in the final moments. Sophie Cunningham, an Indiana player, remarked on the historic significance of playing in Boston, stating, "There’s so much history in this building. I think we really enjoyed it. We don’t take these types of things for granted."

As discussions about potential WNBA expansion in Boston gain traction, speculation surrounds the future of the Connecticut Sun. Earlier this summer, the franchise's ownership group, the Mohegan tribe, confirmed that they are exploring all options for strategic investments, including relocation. Tina Charles addressed the possibility of a Boston WNBA team, saying, "For me, my career and everything great that has happened has always been in the New England area. So I’ll be No. 1 fan, regardless if I’m with the team or not. I just think expansion and growth in the WNBA is very amazing. Young girls and boys can dream the way I dreamt when I was watching New York Liberty back in '97, so it’d be great for this area. The support, everyone that came out, I know everybody would love it to happen."

The electrifying atmosphere in TD Garden not only celebrated the sport but also raised the question of the future of women’s basketball in Boston. As the WNBA continues to grow, the appeal of establishing a franchise in this historic city remains strong, promising to inspire future generations of athletes.