The New York Times has released the latest installment of its popular word puzzle game, Connections: Sports Edition, for September 19th. This edition, the 361st overall, challenges players to uncover four groups of four words each, based on common themes. For those looking to test their knowledge or need a little help, here’s a complete guide to today’s puzzle.
What Is Connections: Sports Edition?
Connections: Sports Edition is a spin-off of the original Connections puzzle, focusing exclusively on sports-related terminology, teams, and concepts. Unlike the general version, this edition is published by The Athletic, a subscription-based sports journalism site owned by The New York Times. It does not appear in the NYT Games app but can be played through The Athletic’s app or online for free. Since its release from beta, it has quickly become a favorite among sports enthusiasts and word game lovers alike.
Today’s Puzzle: A Look at the Categories
Today’s puzzle consists of four color-coded groups, each revealing a unique theme. The colors range from easiest (yellow) to most challenging (purple). Let’s break them down.
🟨 Yellow Group: The Easiest Entry
Hint: Spotted on TV.
Theme: Things seen on an NFL sideline.
Answers: benches, chains, coaches, medical tent
This group is straightforward and serves as a great starting point. These are all familiar elements from a live NFL game broadcast or stadium. The yellow group is designed to ease players into the puzzle, providing a solid foundation for tackling the harder categories.
🟢 Green Group: Unusual Team Names
Hint: Unusual team names.
Theme: NBA teams with singular nicknames.
Answers: Heat, Jazz, Magic, Thunder
This group highlights some of the NBA’s most distinctive team names. Each of these nicknames reflects a unique cultural or historical reference—whether it’s the Miami Heat, Utah Jazz, Orlando Magic, or Oklahoma City Thunder. This category is a nod to the creativity and branding that define professional sports.
Blue Group: Air Jordan
Hint: Air Jordan.
Theme: Teams Michael Jordan played for.
Answers:** Barons, Bulls, UNC, Wizards
A nod to one of basketball’s greatest legends, this group connects Michael Jordan’s career with the teams he played for. From his early days with the Charlotte Hornets (originally the Barons) to his iconic tenures with the Chicago Bulls and UNC Tar Heels, and even his brief stint with the Washington Wizards, this category celebrates a basketball legend’s journey.
🟪 Purple Group: The Big House Is Another One
Hint: The Big House is another one.
Theme: Big Ten stadiums.
Answers: Beaver (Rutgers), Camp Randall (Wisconsin), Ohio (Ohio State), Spartan (Michigan State)
This is the trickiest group, requiring a deeper dive into college sports geography. Each answer refers to a famous stadium in the Big Ten Conference, a collection of elite NCAA Division I schools. From Beaver Stadium at Pennsylvania State University to Camp Randall at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, this group rewards players with knowledge of collegiate athletics.
The Fun of Connections: Sports Edition
Connections: Sports Edition offers a fresh take on the classic word puzzle, blending sports trivia with lateral thinking. Each puzzle is designed to cater to a range of knowledge levels, ensuring that even casual fans can find something to engage with while more dedicated sports enthusiasts are challenged.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun way to test your knowledge, today’s puzzle is a great starting point. Try to solve it on your own before checking the answers—then share your results and see how you stack up!
In summary, today’s Connections: Sports Edition puzzle is a rewarding challenge that combines sports history, team branding, and geography. With its four distinct categories, it’s a testament to the creativity and depth of the Connections franchise
