On Tuesday night the Connecticut Sun honored one of its most iconic figures, Tina Charles, by inducting her into the Sun Legends program and retiring her jersey in a ceremony that blended celebration with farewell.
Charles arrived in Connecticut as a UConn standout, guiding the Huskies to back‑to‑back national championships in 2009 and 2010 and establishing herself as the program’s all‑time leader in scoring and rebounding.
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2010 WNBA Draft quickly became a cornerstone for the Sun, earning Rookie of the Year honors and later a league MVP award while collecting eight All‑Star selections.
Her name now sits atop the franchise’s record books for career points and rebounds per game, and she logged 80 double‑digit performances, underscoring her all‑around impact on the court.
The ceremony, dubbed a ‘Full‑Circle Moment,’ brought together former teammates, coaches and fans to honor the player who helped shape the team’s identity and deepen its connection to the community.
A Legacy That Transcends
Charles took the opportunity to thank the fans, the organization and the state, noting that Connecticut had become a second home and a source of personal growth. She expressed gratitude for the unwavering support that defined her career.
Joining Charles in the 2026 Legends class were Jonquel Jones, Alyssa Thomas, Jasmine Thomas and coach Curt Miller, each a pillar of the Sun’s recent history and a testament to the franchise’s enduring talent.
With the team announcing its relocation to Houston for the upcoming season, Tuesday’s event marked the final home celebration for the Sun in Connecticut, turning the night into both a tribute and a poignant goodbye.