The Connecticut Sun have decided not to trade guard Marina Mabrey despite her request to be dealt earlier this month. Team president Jennifer Rizzotti expressed that it is in the franchise's best interest to retain Mabrey, as she is expected to play a significant role in both the present and future of the team. Rizzotti emphasized that Mabrey is a valued member of the roster, describing her as a competitive player who is well-liked by the organization and seen as an essential piece to build around.
Mabrey joined the Connecticut Sun last summer after being traded from the Chicago Sky. In her time with the Sun, she showcased her skills by averaging 14.9 points and 3.4 assists in 16 games, primarily coming off the bench. The Sun made a significant move to acquire Mabrey, sending Rachel Banham and Moriah Jefferson to Chicago along with draft picks to secure her services for the long term.
Rizzotti highlighted the team's desire to have Mabrey on board for an extended period, emphasizing that she was a priority acquisition due to her potential and fit within the team. Despite Mabrey's trade request, the Sun management remains committed to keeping her and building the team around her talents.
Mabrey's agent expressed surprise at the team's decision not to trade her, citing concerns about forcing a player to remain with a team against their wishes. The agent questioned the team's approach in light of recent changes to the roster, including the departure of key players and the addition of new talent and coaching staff.
The Connecticut Sun underwent significant changes in the offseason, losing all five starters from the previous season. However, they made strategic moves to bring in experienced players like Tina Charles, Natasha Cloud, Diamond DeShields, Jacy Sheldon, and Lindsay Allen. The team also appointed a new head coach, Rashid Meziane, to lead the squad into the upcoming season.
Despite the roster overhaul, Rizzotti remains optimistic about the team's future, emphasizing that the Sun's strategy extends beyond the immediate season and aims to position the team for long-term success.
With a revamped roster and a renewed focus on building around key players like Marina Mabrey, the Connecticut Sun are gearing up for a new chapter in their WNBA journey.
