The New York Times has launched its latest edition of the popular word game, Connections: Sports Edition, providing players with intriguing challenges for February 7, 2026. This version requires participants to identify common threads among sets of words, catering particularly to those who closely follow sports on the West Coast.
Understanding Connections: Sports Edition
Connections: Sports Edition, developed in collaboration with The Athletic, is designed to engage sports enthusiasts by testing their vocabulary and knowledge. The game can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices. Each puzzle presents players with 16 words, requiring them to group these into four categories based on shared characteristics. While many words may seem to fit together, only one correct answer exists for each grouping.
Players can make up to four mistakes before the game ends. If they successfully identify all four words in a category, those words are cleared from the board. To assist with finding connections, players can rearrange and shuffle the board. The game also employs a color-coding system, with yellow indicating the easiest group, followed by green, blue, and purple.
Strategies and Hints for Success
For those seeking hints to navigate today’s puzzle, the game promises a variety of categories that challenge players to think critically and creatively. As with the widely popular Wordle, players are encouraged to share their results on social media, fostering a sense of community among puzzle enthusiasts.
If you’ve struggled with today’s Connections, don’t be discouraged. New puzzles will emerge daily, offering fresh opportunities to sharpen your skills. The NYT team will continue to provide hints and strategies to help players improve their game. For those also interested in Wordle or other puzzle formats, additional resources are available, including hints and solutions for today’s puzzles.
As February 7, 2026 unfolds, the excitement surrounding Connections: Sports Edition continues to grow, promising engaging content for players of all skills. Whether you’re a seasoned word game veteran or a newcomer, this daily challenge is an excellent way to exercise your mind while enjoying the world of sports.
