The Houston Comets are a name that resonates deeply in the history of women’s basketball. Once the crown jewel of the WNBA, the Comets were the league’s first dynasty, dominating the league with four consecutive championships from 1997 to 2000. Despite their immense success, the team was abruptly dismantled, leaving a void in Houston’s sports scene and women’s basketball history.
Now, with the WNBA actively expanding, fans and analysts alike are asking: Could the Houston Comets make a triumphant return? Let’s explore the team’s storied past, its untimely demise, and the possibilities for revival.
The Legacy of the Houston Comets
The Houston Comets weren’t just a team; they were a movement that defined the early years of the WNBA. Their domination went beyond the box score, laying the groundwork for the league’s credibility and popularity. They were a team of firsts: the first champions, the first dynasty, and the first to truly capture the public’s imagination in women’s professional basketball.
Unmatched Success
The Comets’ four consecutive championships from 1997 to 2000 remain an unparalleled feat in the WNBA. Each season showcased their ability to perform under pressure, with consistent excellence against formidable opponents. Their success didn’t just raise the bar—it built it.
Star Power
The Comets boasted a roster filled with trailblazers who became synonymous with greatness:
- Cynthia Cooper: The heart and soul of the dynasty, Cooper’s dominance earned her four straight Finals MVP awards, making her the cornerstone of the Comets’ success.
- Sheryl Swoopes: The league’s first-ever player, Swoopes’ defensive prowess and scoring ability made her one of the most versatile and respected players in WNBA history. She also set a standard for women athletes balancing professional sports and motherhood.
- Tina Thompson: The youngest of the trio, Thompson’s consistency and sharp-shooting ability from the forward position made her an indispensable part of the team and a future Hall of Famer.
The Comets weren’t just about winning—they were about redefining what it meant to compete at the highest level. They brought visibility to women’s basketball, giving young girls and fans alike role models to look up to.
Cultural Impact
Their success came at a time when women’s sports were fighting for recognition. The Comets brought a level of professionalism and entertainment that drew in crowds and cemented Houston as a hub for basketball excellence. The team helped inspire the next generation of players, showing that women’s basketball deserved the spotlight.
The Sudden Dismantling
Despite their unmatched success on the court, the Houston Comets faced insurmountable challenges off it. Financial instability and poor management ultimately led to their untimely demise, a fate that shocked fans and players alike.
Ownership Turmoil
The downfall began when Les Alexander, owner of the Houston Rockets, sold the Comets in 2007. The new ownership struggled to maintain the financial stability and operational support needed to run the team. By 2008, the situation had deteriorated to the point that the WNBA had no choice but to dissolve the franchise.
Impact on Players
Unlike other franchises that relocate or rebrand, the disbanding of the Comets left their players in limbo. Most of the team’s stars were nearing the end of their careers, making it difficult for them to find new homes in the league. Younger players, though talented, didn’t have the established reputations needed to secure significant roles elsewhere. This scattering of talent meant that the heart of the dynasty never truly carried over to other teams.
Fan Devastation
For the city of Houston, losing the Comets was more than losing a team—it was losing a part of their identity. The abrupt end felt like a betrayal to a fanbase that had supported the team through its highs and lows. The absence of the Comets left a void not only in Houston but in the league as a whole, as one of its foundational teams disappeared overnight.
A Lesson in Sustainability
The Comets’ story is a reminder of the importance of strong ownership and financial backing in professional sports. Their downfall highlighted the fragility of early WNBA teams and underscored the need for sustainable business models to ensure the league’s long-term success.
Attempts to Bring the Team Back
Over the years, there have been murmurs of reviving the Houston Comets. Efforts from local groups and campaigns have gained some traction, but none have succeeded in securing the funding and league approval necessary for a revival.
- Past Efforts: In the early 2010s, there were talks of relaunching the Comets, but a lack of corporate sponsorships and venue conflicts hindered progress.
- Fan Demand: The Houston fanbase remains vocal about their desire to see the Comets return, often pointing to the city’s rich basketball culture as a solid foundation for a franchise.
What’s Happening Now?
The WNBA has entered a new era of growth. With expansion officially underway, including new teams in San Francisco (Golden State Valkyries) and Portland, the league is actively evaluating additional markets for future franchises.
- Houston as a Candidate: Houston’s basketball history and the legacy of the Comets make it a strong contender for expansion. However, it faces stiff competition from other cities like Toronto, Cleveland, and Denver.
- Shifting League Dynamics: The league’s rising popularity and increased profitability make the current environment more conducive to expansion compared to the late 2000s.
How the WNBA Has Evolved
The WNBA has changed significantly since the Comets last played:
- Player Salaries: In the early 2000s, WNBA player salaries were modest, with a maximum salary of around $90,000. Today, the maximum salary exceeds $250,000, and players often supplement their income with lucrative overseas contracts and endorsement deals.
- Media Coverage: Television deals with ESPN and digital platforms like Amazon Prime have brought more visibility to the league.
- Fan Engagement: Social media has allowed players and teams to build closer connections with fans, boosting the league’s popularity.
Lessons from Successful Expansions
Recent expansions provide a roadmap for the Comets’ potential return:
- Las Vegas Aces: Formerly the San Antonio Stars, the franchise relocated to Las Vegas in 2018 and became one of the league’s most successful teams, winning championships and cultivating a passionate fanbase.
- Seattle Storm: Although not an expansion team, the Storm’s resurgence as a powerhouse shows the potential for growth and fan engagement in a supportive market.
Houston could replicate these successes with the right leadership, community support, and corporate backing.
What Needs to Happen for the Comets to Return
Reviving the Houston Comets would be no small feat, but with the right approach, it is an achievable goal. Here’s a deeper look at the key elements required to bring back one of the most iconic teams in WNBA history:
1. Strong Ownership
A cornerstone for any successful franchise is stable and committed ownership. The WNBA has seen a significant shift in the quality of ownership groups over the past decade, with new investors bringing financial strength and long-term vision.
- Financial Stability: The league will require any potential owner to demonstrate the financial resources needed to sustain operations. This includes covering player salaries, marketing, travel costs, and other operational expenses.
- Passion for Women’s Basketball: Beyond the financials, a strong owner must be genuinely invested in the growth of women’s basketball. This passion can translate into innovative ideas to engage fans and boost the team’s visibility.
- Examples of Successful Owners: Look at owners like Mark Davis of the Las Vegas Aces, who have set the standard for investing in WNBA teams. His commitment to building a winning franchise has elevated the league’s profile.
For the Comets to succeed, an ownership group with both financial muscle and a love for the sport will be essential.
2. Community Support
A team cannot thrive without the backing of its community. Houston has long been a passionate sports city, but reigniting interest in the Comets would require a concerted effort from both fans and local businesses.
- Grassroots Campaigns: Fan groups could organize petitions, social media campaigns, and community events to show the WNBA that Houston is eager for a team.
- Corporate Sponsorships: Partnerships with Houston-based companies could provide critical funding. Major corporations like Shell, Hewlett-Packard, or MD Anderson Cancer Center could align their brands with a returning Comets franchise.
- Fan Engagement Events: Hosting events such as “Houston Comets Night” at local sporting events or partnering with schools for basketball clinics could build excitement and connect with the younger generation.
The enthusiasm and involvement of the Houston community would serve as a compelling argument for the WNBA to prioritize the city in its expansion plans.
3. Venue Agreements
Securing a suitable home arena is a critical logistical and financial factor. The ideal venue must balance accessibility for fans with the ability to showcase a professional-level product.
- Toyota Center: The Toyota Center, home to the Houston Rockets, is the most logical choice. Its central location and state-of-the-art facilities make it an attractive option, but scheduling and lease agreements must align with the WNBA’s season.
- Alternative Venues: Should the Toyota Center not be available, other options like the Fertitta Center at the University of Houston or the NRG Arena could serve as temporary or secondary venues.
- Fan Experience: A home arena should offer more than just a basketball court; it should create a memorable fan experience. Upgraded seating, interactive fan zones, and accessible concessions would help ensure a packed house for every game.
The Rockets Owner’s Bid to Bring Back the Comets
The potential return of the Houston Comets has gained significant momentum with the involvement of Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta. Known for his deep ties to the city and his commitment to elevating sports in Houston, Fertitta has reportedly expressed strong interest in bringing the Comets back as part of the WNBA’s expansion plans.
A Strategic Move
Fertitta’s bid is not just about reviving the Comets; it’s a strategic move to expand his sports portfolio and strengthen Houston’s position as a premier basketball city. Here’s how his involvement could play a pivotal role:
- Financial Backing: Fertitta’s substantial resources as a billionaire and owner of the Rockets position him as an ideal candidate to support a new WNBA team. His ability to fund player salaries, marketing campaigns, and operational costs would ensure the team starts off on solid financial ground.
- Shared Facilities: The Toyota Center, home to the Rockets, could serve as the Comets’ home arena. Sharing the venue would streamline operations, reduce costs, and provide the Comets with a world-class facility.
- Business Acumen: Fertitta’s expertise in hospitality and entertainment could create innovative fan experiences and attract new audiences to women’s basketball.
Could the Comets Return?
The return of the Houston Comets isn’t just a nostalgic dream—it’s a realistic possibility in the current climate of WNBA growth and expansion. Here’s why:
- Growing Popularity of Women’s Sports: Women’s sports are experiencing unprecedented growth in viewership and investment. The Comets could capitalize on this momentum and become a flagship team for the league once again.
- WNBA Expansion: With the WNBA planning to expand to 16 teams by 2028, Houston is well-positioned to be a leading candidate. Its history as a sports city and the Comets’ legacy offer a compelling case.
- Modern Resources: Advances in digital marketing, ticketing technology, and player development provide tools to ensure a new Comets franchise could be competitive and financially viable from the start.
Why a Return Matters
Bringing back the Houston Comets would be more than just reviving a team—it would be reigniting the legacy of a dynasty. The Comets were pioneers in showcasing the potential of women’s basketball, and their return would serve as a powerful reminder of the league’s roots while embracing its future.
For fans, players, and the city of Houston, the Comets’ return would be a homecoming worth cheering for. The stars are aligning for the WNBA to continue its upward trajectory, and the Houston Comets could once again shine as one of its brightest lights.
