Everything you need to tackle Connections Sports Edition #217.
By on April 24, 2026
Connections: Sports Edition is a new variant of the popular New York Times word game aimed at testing the knowledge of sports enthusiasts.
Similar to the original Connections, this game involves identifying “common threads between words.” Like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and becomes increasingly challenging. We offer some hints and tips to help you out.
If you just need today’s puzzle solution, skip to the end of this article. However, if you prefer solving it yourself, keep reading for clues, tips, and strategies.
SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable
What is Connections Sports Edition?
The NYT’s latest daily word game is partnered with The Athletic, extending the New York Times’ sports coverage. Connections can be accessed via web browsers and mobile devices, requiring players to group four related words.
Each puzzle offers 16 words divided into four categories. These categories may comprise book titles, software, country names, among others. Only one correct arrangement exists.
Upon successfully grouping four related words, they are removed from the board. Incorrect guesses are deemed mistakes—up to four are allowed before the game ends.
Players can shuffle the board for clarity. Each group is color-coded: yellow (easiest), followed by green, blue, and purple. Similar to Wordle, results can be shared on social media.
Want a hint about today’s Connections Sports Edition categories? Try these:
Yellow: To designate Green: Where you’d see the Summer Games Blue: Has hosted a popular basketball player Purple: They share a second word
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Need more help? Today’s connections are:
Yellow: Choose Green: Last four Summer Olympics hosts Blue: Teams Kevin Durant has played for Purple: ___ Derby
Ready for the answers? Final chance to solve today’s puzzle before we reveal solutions.
Drumroll, please!
The solution to today’s Connections Sports Edition #217 is…
Choose – DRAFT, PICK, SELECT, TAKE Last four Summer Olympics host – LONDON, PARIS, RIO DE JANEIRO, TOKYO Teams Kevin Durant has played for – TEXAS, THUNDER, UNITED STATES, WARRIORS ___ Derby – HOME RUN, KENTUCKY, MANCHESTER, ROLLER
Don’t worry if you didn’t guess correctly. New Connections challenges await tomorrow, and we’ll return with more helpful hints.
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.
Looking for more puzzles? Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Connections.
Topics: Connections