1999 Sebring O2 Sensor Replacement: Factory Connectors Required or Can I Wire Directly?

I own a 1999 Sebring convertible with a 2.5L Mitsubishi engine. I'm looking to replace the oxygen (O2) sensor and want to know whether I need the original factory connectors or if I can wire it directly. I already understand which wires correspond to which terminals and have confirmed compatibility by installing an NTK O2 sensor.