The Connecticut Sun have endured a difficult 2025 season so far, securing just five wins and languishing near the bottom of the WNBA standings. Despite these challenges, Marina Mabrey on Connecticut Sun sees reason for optimism with the recent addition of promising young talent Aaliyah Edwards joining the team late in the season.
In an exclusive conversation with Sportskeeda’s Mark Medina, the six-year WNBA veteran spoke about Edwards, who was acquired around the trade deadline. Mabrey praised Edwards’ versatility and adaptability, highlighting how her skill set could benefit the struggling Sun squad.
“She can run the floor. She can screen. She’s creative around the rim,” Mabrey told Medina. “I know she’s going to be a great player in this league for a long time.”
—Marina Mabrey, Connecticut Sun Player
Edwards, currently under a four-year contract worth $324,383, contributed averages of 6.0 points and 3.3 rebounds while playing 21 games this season with the Washington Mystics. Her minutes decreased in Washington due to the emergence of first-round draft picks Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen, resulting in Edwards not starting any games this year. Still, Mabrey believes Edwards’ potential remains strong.
Understanding that Edwards is only in her second professional season, Mabrey emphasizes that patience will be key as Edwards continues to develop and refine her game, especially with her shooting.
“She’s working on her jump shot. It’s only her second season, so we’ll have her for a little while,” Mabrey said. “She’s a great addition, and she’s really coming into herself.”
—Marina Mabrey, Connecticut Sun Player
The arrival of Edwards adds hope to Connecticut’s roster as they look ahead to future seasons, offering a promising piece around which the team can build despite the current struggles in the 2025 campaign.
Building Team Chemistry: Insights from Marina Mabrey on Playing with Tina Charles
Beyond discussing new talent, Mabrey reflected on the importance of team chemistry, particularly her partnership with former MVP and eight-time WNBA All-Star Tina Charles. She explained that understanding each other’s roles and sharing opportunities on the court help foster their connection.
“I think it’s understanding that there’s 90 possessions in the game, give or take,” Mabrey said. “We’re both going to get a chance to be ourselves. It’ll be easier to be ourselves when we work together.”
—Marina Mabrey, Connecticut Sun Player
She further noted that she and Charles have worked well on the finer details, such as setting effective screens and making timely cuts to create scoring chances, which enhances their teamwork and overall performance.
As the Connecticut Sun continue to navigate a tough season, the contributions of emerging players like Aaliyah Edwards and the collaborative spirit within the team, exemplified by players like Mabrey and Charles, provide a foundation of hope for the road ahead.