Latest news with #JenRizzotti
Associated Press
17-06-2025
- Sport
- Associated Press
UConn greats Rebecca Lobo and Jen Rizzotti reunite to coach AAU team with their sons on it
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — Rebecca Lobo had just finished broadcasting Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever's nationally televised victory over the New York Liberty last month when she rushed to the airport to catch a flight back home to Connecticut. She had another game the next day— and she was coaching in this one. Lobo has been coaching her son, Thomas, on his AAU team since he was in the seventh grade. That team, CT Force, was playing in the second day of a tournament in Springfield, Massachusetts, close to where the Hall of Famer grew up. But even if travel delays prevented her from getting there, Lobo wasn't worried. She knew Jen Rizzotti would be. The two stars from UConn's 1995 women's national championship basketball team have been co-coaching since Rizzotti moved back to Connecticut to take over as the Sun's president in 2021 and was looking for an AAU team for her son, Conor. 'It's been a blast because we were super close in college and after college, and then when she went down to D.C. we lost a little contact,' Lobo said. 'Now we get to see each other through the spring and through the fall.' It's hard to miss a lot of the unselfish play and style the Huskies greats learned in their time under Geno Auriemma and Chris Dailey, who just finished off their 40th year at the school. Lobo and Rizzotti have instilled that in their boys' team. Lobo laughed at the notion that they were the younger version of the Hall of Fame coaches, although she acknowledged that Rizzotti, who takes the lead as coach in most of the games, has the same fiery passion as Auriemma. After one play in the boys' game when an official made a call she didn't agree with, the former point guard said something to him. As she walked away, the referee warned her, saying that he heard what she had muttered under her breath and to knock it off, which drew a chuckle from Rizzotti. Handing the clipboard over to Rizzotti when she moved back to Connecticut was a no-brainer for Lobo. Rizzotti had been a head coach at both Hartford and George Washington for two decades before coming to the Sun. 'One thing I'm not is stupid. And like, I think I know basketball pretty well,' Lobo said. 'I didn't coach in college for 20-plus years like she did. It's incredible what she does with these kids. Because it's in practices, not only game strategy, where she's elite.' Besides coaching on the bench, Lobo mused that her role off the court is to be the one to tell the kids to put their phones away when they are out to dinner — a Dailey trait. Coaching her son's team has allowed Rizzotti to spend more time with him. 'If we were at home, he'd want to be going to hang out with his friends or he's in his room sleeping,' Rizzotti said. 'We get a lot of time in the car together. We hang out after the games and have meals together. It's time that I'll always cherish and I'll never have again with him.' Rizzotti said her son will get mad at her and talk back, but she has seen how much working together has meant to his game and their relationship. 'She knows what she's talking about and it feels great that I can go out there and listen to my coach and know that she's right, like, every time,' Conor said. 'So it's awesome playing with these guys and being able to play under her, because we just work so well together.' Their team won the tournament game on that Sunday relatively easily. Lobo graciously took photos between games with players from the girls' AAU teams and talked with players and parents on the boys' side. That's the norm at these tournaments. Lobo recalled being in Atlantic City for a tournament and a group of boys came up to her on the boardwalk asking for a photo. One of them was wearing a Clark jersey. Before she took the photos, she asked them to name a few other WNBA players and they obliged, rattling off stars of the women's league. 'I was like, this is amazing,' she said. The championship game — one of many titles the team has won — gave Rizzotti a chance to coach against another female head coach, a rarity in boys' AAU basketball. Rizzotti had seen a couple of female coaches on the sidelines at this tournament, but hadn't come across a female head coach until the finale. Unfortunately, she's seen the ego of some male coaches get in the way at tournaments. 'There's not a whole lot of men that want to lose to a woman standing on the other sideline and things get said or done that maybe they wouldn't do in other games,' Rizzotti said. 'If they're up like five or six points they'd start stalling with like seven or eight minutes to go because there's no shot clock and they don't want to lose to us.' Rizzotti said she handled that by walking to halfcourt and saying something about trying to make the players better. 'Like, stalling with seven minutes left?' Rizzotti said. 'The parents hear me and I'm like, 'This is what you're paying for?'' Both Lobo and Rizzotti said they will be sad when this is over in a few weeks. There's one more tournament in the area, then a trip to Myrtle Beach to close out the season. Neither plans to coach another boys' AAU team when this is done. 'I'm gonna miss it, like, just really, really miss it,' Lobo said. 'This is the end of it. I don't really have interest in coaching another team that doesn't have my son on it.' ___ AP WNBA:
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
WNBA Team Makes Announcement After Blowout Loss
WNBA Team Makes Announcement After Blowout Loss originally appeared on Athlon Sports. It's been a rough 1-6 start to the 2025 season for the Connecticut Sun. The team hit a new low Sunday during a brutal 48-point loss to the New York Liberty. Advertisement The Sun were outmatched from the start, trailing 60-28 at halftime and scoring just 24 points in the second half on the way to a 100-52 defeat. Through seven games, Connecticut ranks last in the WNBA in scoring, averaging just 70.9 points per game. Despite their struggles on the court, the Sun are still working to engage with the community. The team recently promoted an upcoming local event on social media: "It's officially summer! Come celebrate with us at Washington Park on June 13th as we unveil the new court! The night will be full of basketball, giveaways, and community building!" The Washington Park Court unveiling is a collaborative event with the City of Groton, aiming to highlight the revitalized basketball court and offer a clinic for local kids. Advertisement The renovation, which cost $120,000, includes new hoops, fresh pavement and a new coat of paint. Connecticut Sun president Jen Rizzotti is expected to speak at the event alongside other community leaders. Connecticut Sun guard Marina Krohn-Imagn Images The celebration will also feature a player appearance from the Sun and a chance to win two tickets to the Sun-Indiana Fever game on Aug. 17. On the court, Connecticut has just two players averaging double digits in scoring this season. Tina Charles leads the way with 16.1 points per game, while Marina Mabrey continues to be a key contributor at 15 points per game. The Sun return to action at home on Friday against the Atlanta Dream. Advertisement Related: Atlanta Dream Coach Had Strong Words After Brittney Griner's Return Related: Fans React After New Report Emerges on Caitlin Clark's Injury Timeline This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
Business Wire
28-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
TD Bank Named the Official Bank of the Connecticut Sun
UNCASVILLE, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Connecticut Sun is excited to announce a new multi-year relationship with TD Bank to become the exclusive financial services sponsor for the WNBA team. This collaboration is designed to engage Sun fans while supporting community involvement and championing the growth of women's sports across New England. TD Bank announced as the Official Bank of the Connecticut Sun WNBA team Share As part of the sponsorship, TD Bank and the Connecticut Sun will: Increase access for local youth in underserved communities to experience the excitement of live professional women's basketball through complimentary tickets and transportation to Sun games on the Connecticut Sun Coach Bus. One of these special trips will take fans to the TD Garden on July 15 for an unforgettable game day experience. Spotlight local entrepreneurs through the Small Business of the Month initiative, which provides valuable exposure to small businesses in the region through social media posts and in-arena content. Enhance the fan experience with special perks for eligible TD Cardholders, including a 15% discount on qualified purchases at the merchandise store during home games and a dedicated fast lane at the arena entrance to avoid long lines. Terms and limitations apply. Promote financial education content featuring Connecticut Sun players to provide fans and community members with insights and practical tips for good money habits. 'TD Bank has deep ties to New England, and we are proud to sponsor the Connecticut Sun as we continue to support and empower people throughout the region,' said Sheryl McQuade, Regional President of the New England Metro, TD Bank. 'Through this sponsorship, we also reinforce our dedication to women's sports and women in leadership. Together, TD and the Connecticut Sun will continue fostering an environment where women can thrive and excel.' As the Presenting Sponsor of the Sun's Home Opener for the 2025 season, TD Bank helped tip off the season by giving away co-branded t-shirts to fans in attendance, creating a festive and energetic atmosphere for the team's highly anticipated season opener. 'At the Connecticut Sun, we are incredibly fortunate to have supporters like TD Bank, who share our dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of our fans and the local community. This relationship not only enhances the fan experience but also champions the growth of women's sports and empowers individuals through financial education — hitting so many points of focus for our organization," said Jen Rizzotti, President, Connecticut Sun. 'We are excited to continue working together to create lasting memories and opportunities for those we serve.' 'TD is a long-standing supporter of iconic, purpose-driven sports franchises and venues in New England, and we're thrilled to add the Connecticut Sun to the roster,' said Jennie Platt, Chief Marketing Officer, TD Bank. 'This new sponsorship of Connecticut's powerhouse women's basketball team perfectly complements our existing relationships with the Boston Celtics and the TD Garden, and we look forward to working with the team to deliver unique benefits and experiences for Sun fans and impactful initiatives for the greater New England community in the years ahead.' About the Connecticut Sun Established in 2003, the Connecticut Sun is a professional women's basketball team in the Women's National Basketball Association that takes residence at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. For more information or to purchase season tickets, visit or call 1-877-SUN-TIXX. About TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank ® TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. by assets, providing over 10 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,100 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, N.A., offers vehicle financing and dealer commercial services. TD Bank and its subsidiaries also offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth ®. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit Find TD Bank on Facebook at and on Instagram at TD Bank is a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, a top 10 North American bank. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol "TD". To learn more, visit
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Xfinity Named Official Internet and Mobile Partner of the Connecticut Sun for the 2025 Season
UNCASVILLE, Conn., May 20, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Connecticut Sun announced that Xfinity will serve as the team's Official Internet and Mobile Partner for the 2025 season. The partnership with Xfinity highlights a shared commitment to connectivity, community, and creating meaningful fan experiences throughout New England. Xfinity is Comcast's residential services brand, which offers a full suite of products, including Xfinity Internet, Xfinity Mobile, Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Home Solutions. "Xfinity's partnership with the Connecticut Sun is a new opportunity to make a significant impact in our community by supporting local events and helping young people become the next generation of leaders, business owners, and athletes," said Jessica Muir, Senior Director, Brand Partnerships and Engagement at Comcast. "By becoming the Connecticut Sun's official Internet and Mobile Partner, we'll be able to bring fans closer to what they love." As part of their partnership, Xfinity and the Connecticut Sun will activate a number of engaging initiatives both on and off the court, reinforcing the power of connection in sports and beyond. Xfinity will serve as the presenting sponsor of the official Connecticut Sun podcast, Keep Shinin', as well as the Connecticut Sun mobile app, helping enhance the digital experience for fans throughout the season. "We're thrilled to welcome Xfinity to the Connecticut Sun family," said Jen Rizzotti, President of Connecticut Sun. "This partnership goes beyond the game—it's about bringing people together, celebrating our community, expanding access to technology, and increasing awareness and visibility to the incredible things our athletes are doing on and off the court." Xfinity will also be the presenting sponsor of the Connecticut Sun's "Where to Watch" graphics on social media, helping fans stay connected to every game, home and away. A four-part social content series—featuring players, coaches, and the team's mascot Blaze in a lighthearted and entertaining format—will be rolled out throughout the season. In the arena, Xfinity will surprise fans with exclusive seat upgrade experiences, bringing fans courtside at Sun home games. Additionally, a special Xfinity-branded giveaway item will be distributed to the first 2,500 fans during the Sun's game against the Minnesota Lynx on August 30 at 7:00 PM EST, further enhancing the in-game experience. Demonstrating a shared commitment to community, Xfinity and the Connecticut Sun will also present three events throughout the season, including a community-based event and two "Basketball for Free" clinics. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit for more information. About Connecticut Sun Established in 2003, the Connecticut Sun is a professional women's basketball team in the Women's National Basketball Association that takes residence at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. For more information or to purchase season tickets, visit or call 1-877-SUN-TIXX. View source version on Contacts Media: Connecticut Sun Alexandra Maund(860) 705-9649amaund@ Caroline O'Keefe(860) 823-7561cokeefe@ Xfinity Kristen Roberts860-982-9740kristen_roberts@ Elizabeth Walden860-918-3545elizabeth_Walden@
Associated Press
20-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Xfinity Named Official Internet and Mobile Partner of the Connecticut Sun for the 2025 Season
UNCASVILLE, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 20, 2025-- The Connecticut Sun announced that Xfinity will serve as the team's Official Internet and Mobile Partner for the 2025 season. The partnership with Xfinity highlights a shared commitment to connectivity, community, and creating meaningful fan experiences throughout New England. Xfinity is Comcast's residential services brand, which offers a full suite of products, including Xfinity Internet, Xfinity Mobile, Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Home Solutions. 'Xfinity's partnership with the Connecticut Sun is a new opportunity to make a significant impact in our community by supporting local events and helping young people become the next generation of leaders, business owners, and athletes,' said Jessica Muir, Senior Director, Brand Partnerships and Engagement at Comcast. 'By becoming the Connecticut Sun's official Internet and Mobile Partner, we'll be able to bring fans closer to what they love.' As part of their partnership, Xfinity and the Connecticut Sun will activate a number of engaging initiatives both on and off the court, reinforcing the power of connection in sports and beyond. Xfinity will serve as the presenting sponsor of the official Connecticut Sun podcast, Keep Shinin', as well as the Connecticut Sun mobile app, helping enhance the digital experience for fans throughout the season. 'We're thrilled to welcome Xfinity to the Connecticut Sun family,' said Jen Rizzotti, President of Connecticut Sun. 'This partnership goes beyond the game—it's about bringing people together, celebrating our community, expanding access to technology, and increasing awareness and visibility to the incredible things our athletes are doing on and off the court.' Xfinity will also be the presenting sponsor of the Connecticut Sun's 'Where to Watch' graphics on social media, helping fans stay connected to every game, home and away. A four-part social content series—featuring players, coaches, and the team's mascot Blaze in a lighthearted and entertaining format—will be rolled out throughout the season. In the arena, Xfinity will surprise fans with exclusive seat upgrade experiences, bringing fans courtside at Sun home games. Additionally, a special Xfinity-branded giveaway item will be distributed to the first 2,500 fans during the Sun's game against the Minnesota Lynx on August 30 at 7:00 PM EST, further enhancing the in-game experience. Demonstrating a shared commitment to community, Xfinity and the Connecticut Sun will also present three events throughout the season, including a community-based event and two 'Basketball for Free' clinics. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit for more information. About Connecticut Sun Established in 2003, the Connecticut Sun is a professional women's basketball team in the Women's National Basketball Association that takes residence at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. For more information or to purchase season tickets, visit or call 1-877-SUN-TIXX. View source version on CONTACT: Media:Connecticut Sun Alexandra Maund (860) 705-9649 [email protected] O'Keefe (860) 823-7561 [email protected] Kristen Roberts 860-982-9740 [email protected] Walden 860-918-3545 [email protected] KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA CONNECTICUT INDUSTRY KEYWORD: BASKETBALL TECHNOLOGY MOBILE/WIRELESS SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT MOBILE ENTERTAINMENT GENERAL ENTERTAINMENT INTERNET PODCAST SOURCE: Comcast Corporation Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 05/20/2025 09:15 AM/DISC: 05/20/2025 09:14 AM
