WNBA Stars Courtside: Saniya Rivers & Aaliyah Edwards Attend Celtics-76ers Season Opener
Boston’s TD Garden welcomed a star-studded crowd for the Celtics’ season opener, but the presence of Connecticut Sun guards Saniya Rivers and Aaliyah Edwards added a unique dimension to the night, signaling a growing synergy between the WNBA and NBA.
BOSTON – Beyond the familiar faces of Celtics legends Paul Pierce, Dana Barros, and Leon Powe, and other prominent athletes like Lindsey Vonn and Anfernee Jennings, Wednesday night’s highly anticipated Boston Celtics versus Philadelphia 76ers matchup featured a notable contingent from the Connecticut Sun. Rising stars Saniya Rivers and Aaliyah Edwards were spotted courtside, adding to the electric atmosphere at TD Garden.
Rivers, coming off an impressive rookie season where she quickly established herself as a defensive force and versatile two-way guard, and Edwards, a dynamic second-year forward acquired mid-season to bolster the Sun’s frontcourt, represent a pivotal core for the future of the Connecticut franchise. Their presence at the NBA game underscored the increasing crossover between the WNBA and NBA fanbases.
Both players expressed their excitement about attending the game, even as the Celtics narrowly lost to the 76ers 117-116 in a thrilling finish. For Rivers, the evening held particular significance – it was her first time experiencing an NBA game in person.
“This is amazing,” Rivers shared before tip-off. “I’m blessed.”
While this marked Rivers’ first NBA game as a spectator, she’s no stranger to the hallowed halls of TD Garden. She previously played there as a member of the Connecticut Sun during their July matchup against the Indiana Fever, a game that drew a significant crowd and highlighted the growing popularity of the WNBA. Reflecting on that experience, Rivers described feeling “overstimulated” by the sheer scale of the arena, a stark contrast to the 10,000-seat venues she played in during her freshman year at South Carolina.
“Seeing that this arena was full when we played Indiana, it was crazy,” she recalled. “That’s the most important part – seeing that we’re expanding. So I think it was great for our league.”
Accompanying Rivers and Edwards was Connecticut Sun General Manager Morgan Tuck, who recently sat down with SB Nation for an in-depth interview discussing the team’s future. Edwards’ journey to the Sun has been particularly noteworthy.
A Full-Circle Moment for Aaliyah Edwards
For Aaliyah Edwards, the return to the Northeast carries a special resonance. A four-year standout at the University of Connecticut, Edwards initially seemed to be moving away from the region after being drafted by the Washington Mystics in 2024. However, a trade in August brought her back to the Sun, completing a remarkable full-circle moment.
“We were really excited that we got to get her, honestly,” said General Manager Morgan Tuck. “I wish we could have gotten her a little bit earlier in the season, but glad that we got her before the deadline.”
Since rejoining the Connecticut Sun, Edwards has been warmly received by UConn fans, who have expressed their enthusiasm for her return. “I didn’t think I’d be back playing in Connecticut so soon,” Edwards admitted, “But I’m grateful to wear Connecticut across my chest again.”
While Edwards didn’t participate in the Sun’s previous game at TD Garden due to the timing of her trade, she expressed her eagerness to experience the atmosphere firsthand. “I would love to be a part of this,” she said. “This atmosphere and this energy that they bring each and every night, it’s cool. Home opener for the NBA season – to support our brother team, it feels amazing.”
The Connecticut Sun are scheduled to play at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville next season, with another game at TD Garden anticipated. However, the team’s long-term future remains uncertain as the franchise is currently up for sale. Boston has emerged as a potential relocation destination, but the WNBA has expressed reservations about a sale to a group led by former Celtics minority owner Steve Pagliuca. Hartford, Connecticut, and Houston, Texas, are also in contention, leaving the team’s future location in flux.
Despite the uncertainty, Rivers believes General Manager Tuck is keeping the team informed about the latest developments. It remains a possibility that both Rivers and Edwards will eventually have the opportunity to regularly showcase their talents at TD Garden. But on Wednesday, their presence was simply a gesture of support and a celebration of the growing connection between the WNBA and NBA.
What does the increased visibility of WNBA players at NBA games signify for the future of women’s basketball? And how might a potential relocation impact the Sun’s fanbase and community engagement?
Frequently Asked Questions About the WNBA and NBA Connection
What is the significance of WNBA players attending NBA games?
The presence of WNBA players at NBA games signifies a growing synergy and mutual support between the two leagues, increasing visibility for women’s basketball and fostering a stronger connection with fans.
How has Saniya Rivers’ experience been playing at TD Garden?
Saniya Rivers has had a memorable experience playing at TD Garden, describing the atmosphere as “overstimulating” and highlighting the significance of the Sun’s sell-out game against the Indiana Fever as a testament to the growing popularity of the WNBA.
What is the current status of the Connecticut Sun’s ownership and potential relocation?
The Connecticut Sun franchise is currently up for sale, with Boston, Hartford, and Houston emerging as potential relocation destinations. The WNBA has expressed reservations about a sale to a Boston-based group, leaving the team’s future location uncertain.
What role does Aaliyah Edwards’ UConn background play in her return to Connecticut?
Aaliyah Edwards’ successful four-year career at the University of Connecticut has made her a beloved figure in the region, and her return to the Sun has been met with enthusiasm from UConn fans.
How does the attendance of WNBA players at NBA games benefit the WNBA?
Increased visibility and cross-promotion between the WNBA and NBA can help grow the WNBA fanbase, attract new sponsors, and elevate the profile of women’s basketball.
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