The WNBA Playoffs 2025 are here, and the stage is set for an exciting postseason. With a new playoff format, an expansion team making history, and stars ready to shine, this year promises drama from start to finish.
A New Format for 2025
The league has introduced a few changes this season. The First Round remains best-of-3 but now follows a 1-1-1 format, giving both teams a chance to host a game. The Semifinals are best-of-5, while the WNBA Finals expand to best-of-7 for the first time ever, raising the stakes for the championship series.
This shift could favor deeper rosters like Minnesota and Las Vegas, while also giving underdogs more opportunities to upset higher seeds.
The Seeding and First Round Matchups
Eight teams punched their ticket to the postseason, with standings tighter than ever:
- (1) Minnesota Lynx vs (8) Golden State Valkyries
- (2) Las Vegas Aces vs (7) Seattle Storm
- (3) Atlanta Dream vs (6) Indiana Fever
- (4) Phoenix Mercury vs (5) New York Liberty
The Lynx dominated the regular season with a 34-10 record, while the defending champion New York Liberty entered as a No. 5 seed, making their road to another title much tougher.
Key Storylines to Watch
Minnesota Lynx: The Team to Beat
Led by Napheesa Collier, who just joined the rare 50-40-90 shooting club, Minnesota looks every bit like the title favorite. Their consistency on both ends of the floor makes them the biggest obstacle for anyone eyeing the trophy.
Golden State Valkyries: History in the Making
The expansion Valkyries have stunned everyone by reaching the playoffs in their debut season. Their Cinderella story brings fresh energy to the league, and even if they fall to Minnesota, they’ve already proven themselves as a franchise to watch.
Las Vegas Aces: A Championship Threat
A’ja Wilson and the Aces remain dangerous. With championship experience and depth, they are one of the few teams that can realistically challenge Minnesota.
Indiana Fever: Can They Survive Without Caitlin Clark?
The Fever’s playoff hopes took a massive hit with Caitlin Clark sidelined for the season. Still, their young roster has shown resilience, and how they handle Atlanta in the first round will be telling.
New York Liberty: Defending the Crown
After lifting the trophy in 2024, the Liberty now face the challenge of defending their title from a lower seed. They’ll need Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu at their very best to survive Phoenix in what looks like the most competitive first-round matchup.
My Take: Who Wins It All?
While the playoffs are unpredictable, Minnesota’s balance and Collier’s historic efficiency put them a step ahead of the field. The Aces remain the most likely challenger, but don’t count out New York-they’ve been here before and know what it takes.
If there’s one upset brewing, it might be Phoenix vs. New York. The Mercury have the firepower to knock off the defending champs and shake up the bracket.
Final Word
The 2025 WNBA Playoffs have all the ingredients of a memorable postseason: star power, new blood, and historic changes. Whether Minnesota cements its dominance, Las Vegas reclaims the crown, or an underdog steals the spotlight, fans are in for a treat.
