Celtics’ Pagliuca Leads Record $325M Purchase of Connecticut Sun

A group led by Steve Pagliuca, minority owner of the Boston Celtics, has reached an agreement to purchase the Connecticut Sun for a record $325 million. The sale, which is pending approval from the league and its Board of Governors, will see the franchise relocate to Boston, although the team will not begin play there until the 2027 season. According to a source familiar with the transaction, Pagliuca will also contribute $100 million towards a new practice facility in Boston for the team.

The investment marks a significant move in women’s professional sports, reflecting the growing financial viability and popularity of women’s basketball. The Connecticut Sun has been a competitive force in the WNBA, consistently reaching the playoffs and contributing to the league’s rising profile.

USA Achieves World Record in Swimming Championships

In other sports news, the United States has set a world record in the 4×100 freestyle mixed relay at the Swimming World Championships in Singapore, finishing with a time of 3 minutes, 18.48 seconds. This performance eclipsed the previous record of 3:18.83, which was held by Australia since 2023. The record-breaking swim occurred during a night in which the U.S. team secured three gold medals, marking a highlight in an otherwise challenging championship for the squad. Notable victories included Katie Ledecky in the 800 freestyle and Gretchen Walsh in the 50-meter butterfly, bringing the total gold medals won by the U.S. to eight as the championships wrap up this Sunday.

In a significant move within the NBA, Luka Doncic has signed a three-year maximum contract extension worth $165 million with the Los Angeles Lakers. This agreement will keep the Slovenian superstar with the Lakers through 2028, effectively ending his potential free agency next summer. Doncic previously played for the Dallas Mavericks before a high-profile trade earlier this year, in which he was acquired in exchange for Anthony Davis. The player expressed his enthusiasm on social media, stating, “Excited to keep working to bring championships to LA and make Laker Nation proud.”

Legal Troubles for Athletes

In off-field incidents, reigning 100-meter world champion Sha’Carri Richardson was arrested last weekend at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for an alleged domestic violence offense involving her boyfriend. Richardson faces a fourth-degree charge but is expected to compete in the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo in September, as she holds an automatic bye due to her title defense.

Meanwhile, Denzel Perryman, linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, was arrested on weapons charges during a traffic stop. Authorities discovered five firearms, including two assault weapons, in his vehicle. Perryman has been booked on felony charges and is currently being held without bond. His agent has confirmed that he remains in custody, with a court appearance scheduled for Tuesday.

Unique Sports Events and Player Updates

In a unique sporting event, the MLB Speedway Classic took place at the Bristol Motor Speedway, featuring a baseball diamond constructed on the infield of the famous racetrack. The event, which included live music, food trucks, and various activities, has been four years in the making, showcasing the fusion of motorsport and baseball culture.

In personal updates from players, Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice spoke publicly for the first time about a serious car accident that occurred last year on a Dallas highway, resulting in injuries to multiple individuals and costing him over $1 million in settlements. Rice, who missed most of the previous season due to a knee injury, is now focused on returning to the field while facing the possibility of an NFL suspension.

Finally, in golf, Miyu Yamashita faced challenges during the Women’s British Open, shooting a 74 on her birthday and seeing her lead shrink to just one shot over A Lim Kim heading into the final round. Despite her struggles, Yamashita managed to sink a crucial 40-foot par putt that allowed her to maintain her narrow lead.

As the sports world continues to evolve, these stories reflect both the triumphs and tribulations faced by athletes across various disciplines.