NYT Connections: Sports Edition challenges sports enthusiasts to identify common threads between seemingly disparate words. This daily word puzzle, a spin-off of the original Connections game, tests your sports knowledge. If you’re looking for a strategic advantage, read on for hints and category clues to conquer today’s challenge before diving into the answers.

Decoding the NYT Connections: Sports Edition

The Connections: Sports Edition, in collaboration with The Athletic, tasks you with grouping four words that share a common link. This engaging game is available on web browsers and mobile devices. Each puzzle presents 16 words which must be divided into four distinct categories.

The challenge lies in discerning the hidden connection. While several words might appear to fit, only one correct grouping exists for each category. Correctly identify all four words in a set, and they disappear from the board. But beware! Four incorrect guesses, and the game is over. To assist players, a shuffle feature is available to rearrange the board and spot connections. Additionally, the categories are color-coded for difficulty: Yellow (easiest), Green, Blue, and Purple (hardest). And just like Wordle, players can share their results with friends.

Need a Little Help? Hints for Today’s Sports Connections

Feeling stuck? Here’s a general hint to nudge you in the right direction without revealing the categories:

Think about the gear used in various sports.
Consider the colors that represent different teams.
Focus on athletes’ achievements and associations.
Reflect on college alma maters and famous alumni.

Unveiling Today’s Connections: Categories Revealed

Ready for more targeted assistance? These are the categories for today’s NYT Connections Sports Edition puzzle:

Yellow: Track and field equipment
Green: Purple and gold teams
Blue: Associated with A’ja Wilson
Purple: University of Washington alumni

The Solution: Connections Sports Edition 356 (September 14, 2025)

This is your final opportunity to solve the puzzle independently before we reveal the answers!

Here’s the solution to today’s Connections: Sports Edition:

Track and field equipment: BATON, HAMMER, HURDLE, POLE
Purple and gold teams: EAST CAROLINA, LAKERS, LSU, VIKINGS
Associated with A’ja Wilson: A’ONE, ACES, MVP, SOUTH CAROLINA
University of Washington alumni: MOON, PENIX, PLUM, ROY

Don’t be discouraged if you didn’t crack the code this time. A fresh Connections puzzle awaits you tomorrow! Check back here for helpful hints and solutions daily. If you’re looking for more brain-teasing fun, explore our collection of games, including Mahjong, Sudoku, and crosswords.