UNCASVILLE, Conn. (April 22, 2017) – The Connecticut Sun announced today that forward Chiney Ogwumike has signed a multiple-year contract extension.
Terms were not released.
The Sun also announced that Ogwumike, who had offseason surgery to repair an Achilles tendon injury, will be suspended for the 2017 season.
“It’s never easy choosing to sit out a season, but I knew this would give my team the best chance to be successful not only this year but also for years to come,” Ogwumike said. “I am really excited about our strong young core, and my contract extension ensures that upon my return to the court in 2018, we will continue to build together.”
The 2014 WNBA Rookie of the Year, Ogwumike averaged 12.6 points and 6.7 rebounds last season after missing all of 2015 recovering from micro-fracture surgery on her right knee. Over the last 17 games of the 2016 season, Ogwumike averaged 16.9 points and 9.2 rebounds with seven 20-point games and eight double-doubles. She set new career-highs for points (26) and blocks (7) while also pulling down 15 rebounds in a win at Dallas (7/20). On July 7th, Ogwumike set a franchise record for most shots made without a miss, hitting all eight of her field goal attempts.
“We are thrilled to have signed Chiney to a multi-year contract extension,” Connecticut Sun head coach and general manager Curt Miller said. “She believes in our vision and will continue to be an important piece of our bright future. We will certainly miss her during the 2017 season but know she will be working hard to return stronger than ever.”
Ogwumike led the Sun in rebounding 15 times, was the top scorer seven times and reached double figures in 22 games. Her performance earned her recognition as the Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year.
The Sun open the 2017 season on Saturday, May 13th, hosting the Atlanta Dream at Mohegan Sun Arena at 7:00pm. Season tickets and flexible mini plans are on sale now and can be purchased, starting at $14 per game, by contacting 877-SUN-TIXX or tickets@connecticutsun.com.