What to know about the Sun’s fan policy

Five hundred and eighty-six days. That’s how long it’s been since Mohegan Sun Arena hosted Game 4 of the WNBA Finals in October 2019. The Connecticut Sun temporarily staved off elimination, beating the Washington Mystics 90-86 before a crowd of 8,458.

Since then, the world has changed. The coronavirus shuttered the casino’s doors and forced the WNBA to move the 2020 season — shortened to 22 games — into a bubble at IMG Academy in Florida.

On Sunday (7 p.m.), the Sun will make their longawaited return to Mohegan Sun when they host UConn legend Diana Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury. Connecticut opened its season Friday with a 78-67 road win over the Atlanta Dream.

Keep in mind, the fan experience won’t entirely be back to normal to start the season due to COVID-19 restrictions, so here’s a look at what to

expect if you plan on attending.

WHAT’S THE ATTENDANCE CAP?

Only full and partial season-ticket holders will be allowed in the building through July 9, spanning the first nine home games before the WNBA’s Olympic break. Attendance will be capped at about 2,300, just shy of 25% capacity, and groups of fans will be seated at least 6 feet apart to adhere to social distancing policies. Both the lower and upper bowl seats will be used.

The team plans to release information on group and individual ticket sales at a later date.

IS TESTING REQUIRED?

No, but spectators’ temperatures will be checked at entry points, and masks are required at all times when not eating or drinking. Prepackaged snacks will be available for purchase along with fountain drinks. Food and beverages must be consumed while seated.

To minimize touch points with security, no bags will be allowed other than medical/childcare bags and wristlets or handheld wallets.

SO THIS ISN’T THE FIRST EVENT THE ARENA HAS HOSTED DURING THE PANDEMIC?

No, far from it. Mohegan Sun became a hub for college basketball last November, hosting more than two dozen Division I men’s and women’s games. The 10-day event, dubbed “Bubbleville,” marked the sport’s return amid the pandemic. The arena also housed MMA and boxing matches, as well as the Big East women’s basketball tournament in March.

CAN’T MAKE IT? WILL GAMES BE TELEVISED?

NESN remains the primary broadcast home of the Sun. Twenty-two games this season will be televised across NESN and NESN+, beginning with Sunday’s home opener against the Phoenix Mercury, which will also air on CBS Sports Network.

The Sun will also appear on ESPN/ESPN3 and CBS a few times, and on occasion will have games streamed on Twitter, Facebook, Amazon Prime and NBA TV. It’s important to note, though, that NBA TV games are blacked out in New England.