Abstract: An assembly and method for end-to-side connection to anatomical tissue is disclosed. The system and method are particularly useful in coupling a ventricular assist device pump to an aorta. The assembly and method include using a tubular graft member coupled to a connection ring having at least one of a plurality of distally projecting tines extending from a distal aspect of the connection ring, and a stent having a distal flange section configured to abut an abluminal wall surface of the aorta, and an assembly including the tubular graft member and connection ring, for delivering the end-to-side connection.