Imagine a team going from championship contender to league doormat in the blink of an eye. That's the harsh reality for the Lunar Owls, a team now struggling to find its footing after a devastating roster overhaul. But here's where it gets interesting: amidst the chaos, a dynamic duo has emerged, showcasing a connection so potent it could reshape the fortunes of another team entirely – the Connecticut Sun.
The Lunar Owls' downfall was swift and merciless. Retaining only two players from their previous roster, they lost key contributors like Allisha Gray, Shakira Austin, Cameron Brink, and Courtney Williams. Replacements like Marina Mabrey, Aaliyah Edwards, Rachel Banham, and Rebecca Allen stepped in, but the loss of Napheesa Collier to injury before the season even began dealt another crushing blow. Temi Fagbenle filled the void, but the Owls were left with a roster lacking star power.
Compounding their struggles, Skylar Diggins missed the first three games due to injury, leaving the Owls reliant on role players to compete against powerhouse teams. Unsurprisingly, they dropped all three contests. However, a glimmer of hope emerged in their game against the Laces. Despite ultimately falling short, the Owls kept it close until late in the third quarter, thanks to the explosive tandem of Marina Mabrey and Aaliyah Edwards.
Edwards was unstoppable, pouring in 38 points on an incredibly efficient 16-19 shooting, grabbing 13 rebounds, and dishing out an assist. Mabrey chipped in with 26 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists, showcasing their undeniable chemistry. Their two-player actions were a nightmare for defenders, as they consistently found each other in transition, fueling the Owls' offense.
This partnership bodes incredibly well for the Connecticut Sun, especially if they can re-sign Mabrey during the offseason. Mabrey, the Sun's most prominent unrestricted free agent, has had a tumultuous relationship with the team. Traded to Connecticut in 2024 seeking a competitive environment, she found herself as the lone veteran after a disastrous offseason saw the Sun lose several key players. Despite requesting a trade, Mabrey remained and, when healthy, played a pivotal role in keeping the Sun afloat, averaging 14.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4 assists.
While Mabrey expressed a desire to return to the Sun for the 2026 season, free agency will undoubtedly present tempting offers from contending teams. However, the Sun can counter with a compelling proposition: a substantial contract, a leading role, and the chance to spearhead a new era of Sun basketball.
Re-signing Mabrey would be a coup for the Sun. They desperately need veteran leadership to guide their young core, and Mabrey's experience and work ethic make her an ideal candidate. Pairing her with the talented Aaliyah Edwards, acquired mid-season from Washington, could create a dynamic frontcourt alongside Aneesah Morrow. Edwards thrives in the pick-and-roll and needs a guard who can set her up in transition – a role Mabrey is perfectly suited for.
And this is the part most people miss: the Sun already have proof of concept. Edwards and Mabrey's chemistry with the Lunar Owls demonstrates their potential to be a devastating duo.
The question remains: will Mabrey choose the stability and leadership opportunity with the Sun, or will the allure of a championship contender prove too strong? The Sun's offseason hinges on this decision, and the league will be watching closely.
What do you think? Can the Sun convince Mabrey to stay and build something special, or will she seek greener pastures elsewhere? Let us know in the comments below!
