Tina Charles Supports Rookie Saniya Rivers in Challenging Season for Sun

UNCASVILLE, Connecticut – The Connecticut Sun added Tina Charles in the offseason, expecting to gain a seasoned veteran and a strong role model for their young roster. As the Sun navigate a challenging start to their season, Charles has stepped up, especially for rookie Saniya Rivers, who has faced personal tragedy while launching her professional career.

The six weeks leading up to Rivers’s WNBA debut last week were a whirlwind. After a successful run to the Sweet 16 with N.C. State, Rivers was chosen eighth overall in the draft. Tragically, she lost her mother, Demetria, just after the draft. At 22, Rivers not only had to begin her career but also cope with the absence of her mother.

“Losing my mom has been the toughest thing I’ve ever faced in my life, and I’m playing for her,” Rivers said after facing the Las Vegas Aces. “I know she’s looking over me and protecting me in a different way.”

While Rivers has received support from the Sun’s coaching staff, Charles has consistently checked in on her. “Tina alone checking in on me every day is just amazing,” said Rivers. “She played a big sister role, and that motivated me.”

Charles reassured Rivers, telling her, “Things are going to change throughout your career, but I’ll forever be your vet. That will never change.”

At 36, Charles, with 11 years of WNBA experience, understands the rough road ahead for Rivers. “Just the resilience and the endurance that she’s showing, there’s no reason why we’re not able to build off it,” Charles remarked.

Despite their challenges, Rivers has been a bright spot for the Sun, averaging 8 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 27.2 minutes. The team started the season with four losses, struggling offensively, ranking last in scoring and field goal percentage.

Other former Sun players are also adjusting to new teams. Brionna Jones has embraced a new role with the Atlanta Dream and is averaging 13.8 points and 11.6 rebounds. In Phoenix, Alyssa Thomas is having a strong performance, scoring a career-high 16.5 points per game.

Caitlin Clark, a standout rookie from last season, is recovering from a strained quadriceps, impacting the Indiana Fever as they prepare to face the Sun on Friday night.

The Fever, currently without Clark, will look to adjust as they host the Sun, who are still in search of their first win of the season. The matchup is set for May 30, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

As the season progresses, both Rivers and the Sun hope that their resilience will help them improve and find success on the court.