Toronto Tempo acquire Aneesah Morrow from Connecticut Sun in deadline trade

The Toronto Tempo acquired forward Aneesah Morrow from the Connecticut Sun in a trade that sends the rights to Maria Kliundikova and a 2028 second-round pick back to Connecticut, according to ESPN's reporting. The deal marks the first trade move across the WNBA heading into Sunday's midseason deadline.

Morrow, a 6-foot-1 forward and former LSU standout, was selected seventh overall by Connecticut in last year's draft. In her second season, she has compiled nine double-doubles in 20 appearances and averaged 11.6 points and 8.9 rebounds in 23.2 minutes, mostly coming off the bench, per ESPN. She is under contract through 2027, with a team option for 2028 and restricted free agent status in 2029.

Tempo general manager Monica Wright Rogers said in a statement, "We're thrilled to welcome Aneesah to our organization. She's a relentless competitor who impacts the game in so many ways, particularly with her ability to rebound at a high level. We believe she's one of the emerging frontcourt talents in this league, and we're excited to see her play in a Tempo uniform."

Connecticut Sun president Jen Rizzotti added, "We are incredibly grateful for the time Aneesah spent with the Connecticut Sun and for the professionalism, commitment, and buy-in she showed from the moment we drafted her. She embraced our vision, was a tremendous ambassador for our franchise both on and off the court, and built meaningful relationships with our fans, her teammates, and staff. We wish Aneesah nothing but continued success in the next chapter of her career."

The deal brings Kliundikova's rights back to Connecticut after the 28-year-old did not report to Toronto in the Tempo's inaugural season, according to ESPN. A 6-foot-4 forward who has played three WNBA seasons, Kliundikova most recently appeared for the Minnesota Lynx last year, averaging 4.4 points and 3.0 rebounds in 11.0 minutes off the bench. She played for the Los Angeles Sparks from 2018 to 2019. ESPN sources indicated it is too early to know whether Kliundikova will decide to play in the WNBA next year, but that is the hope from the Sun.

The trade occurs as the Tempo, in their first season as Canada's team, sit at 10-18 and are likely out of a playoff spot, per ESPN. The rebuilding Sun, who are relocating to Houston after this season, hold a 7-22 record and the best odds for the 2027 No. 1 pick.