Here’s a story that might surprise you: WNBA veteran Bria Hartley, a two-time champion with the UConn Huskies and current shooting guard for the Connecticut Sun, has found an unexpected second home in Minnesota—and it’s not just for the summers. But here’s where it gets personal: after two devastating ACL injuries, Hartley’s journey to recovery led her to the North Star State, where she’s now putting down roots both on and off the court. Let’s dive into why this basketball powerhouse is calling Minnesota her offseason haven.
If you’re a WNBA fan, Bria Hartley’s name is likely familiar. Since joining the league in 2014, she’s become a standout player, but her connection to Minnesota runs deeper than her professional career. It all started in 2020 when Hartley tore her ACL and found herself in need of surgery during a time when hospital space was limited. She discovered an opening at TCO Training Haus in Eagan, Minnesota, and the rest, as they say, is history.
And this is the part most people miss: after her first injury, Hartley stayed in Minnesota to rehab at Training Haus with physical therapist Braidy Solie. Two years later, when she tore her other ACL during a game against the Lynx at Target Center, she didn’t hesitate to return to the same facility. ‘I just really trust them here at Training Haus,’ she said. ‘I’ve built relationships with my surgeons, my PTs, and I really love this facility. Coming back here was a no-brainer.’
Now 34, Hartley continues to train in Eagan, focusing on maintaining her health as a veteran player. She’s working with experts who are teaching her the right way to work out, including pilates with Denise Strenger. ‘I don’t know if I’ve necessarily had the education on how to lift properly and do certain things until I had my injury,’ Hartley admitted. ‘Now you realize how much that really matters.’
Minnesota has become more than just a rehab destination for Hartley—it’s a place of resilience and growth. During her darkest days as an athlete, the state became a source of support, turning her 8-year-old son, Bryson, into a Vikings fan and even leading her to work as an assistant coach for the Benilde-St. Margaret’s girls’ basketball team. ‘I’ve always been really big on trying to give back, especially to young girls,’ she said. ‘I want to be a mentor and help those kids with their mentality, whether they want to play Division I basketball or professionally.’
Here’s the controversial part: while Hartley is committed to the Connecticut Sun, she hasn’t ruled out the possibility of joining the Minnesota Lynx someday. ‘If the opportunity presented itself and it was the right fit, I’d be open to it,’ she said. Could we see her in a Lynx jersey in the future? It’s a question that’s sure to spark debate among fans.
Hartley’s story is one of perseverance and reinvention. She hopes to inspire others by proving that even in the face of setbacks, you can rebound stronger than ever. ‘There could be moments that are low and very difficult, but if you stay your course and stay committed, you can come out on the other side,’ she said. With plans to play in the WNBA for at least three more years, Hartley’s journey is far from over.
So, what do you think? Is Minnesota the perfect offseason home for Bria Hartley, or is there another city that could offer her the same level of support and opportunity? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
