WNBA Playoffs Preview
The WNBA playoffs kick off on September 14th, featuring eight teams from the league’s total of 13 in a series of best-of-three matchups.
This year marks a shift in format for the first round, where lower-seeded teams will definitely play at least one home game, allowing their fans to cheer them on.
The regular season wraps up just about six weeks before the playoffs, so if they were to start today, here’s what the matchups would look like.
No. 1 Minnesota Lynx vs. No. 8 Washington Mystics
The Lynx, boasting a strong 21-4 record, have been the most reliable team in the league. Napheesa Collier is in the running for MVP, alongside All-Stars Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams, who are all fueled by last year’s final losses and eager to bounce back.
The Mystics, conversely, have surprised many, thanks in large part to rookies Sonia Citron and Kiki Iliafen, who both earned All-Star honors. Experienced player Brittney Sykes, at 31 and enjoying a standout season, adds depth. Although the Mystics enter as heavy underdogs, simply making it this far is an achievement in itself.
No. 2 New York Liberty vs. No. 7 Las Vegas Aces
If the playoffs were to launch today, we’d witness a clash of the last two WNBA champions in this first-round matchup. The Liberty hold a 16-6 record but faced a dip with Jonquel Jones sidelined due to an ankle injury. However, they’ve rallied back by winning four straight games, bolstered by the recent addition of Belgian talent Emma Meesseman.
On the other hand, the Aces are sitting at a 12-12 record, with Jewell Loyd facing some recent struggles. Nonetheless, Las Vegas has a strong lineup that includes three-time MVP A’ja Wilson, supported by talents like Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray, making this series one to watch.
No. 3 Phoenix Mercury vs. No. 6 Indiana Fever
The Mercury, with a 15-8 record, have been quietly formidable. Led by Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, they’ve also seen Kahleah Copper return post-preseason knee surgery. Recently signed Dewanna Bonner has shined, averaging 14.5 points and hitting over 51% of her shots in her first four games.
The Fever, however, have had an up-and-down season, primarily due to injuries to star sophomore Caitlin Clark, who has only appeared in 13 games this year because of calf issues. If they can get her back healthy for the postseason, they could be a wildcard trying to shake things up.
This matchup also presents a chance for Bonner to face the team she began the season with.
No. 4 Seattle Storm vs. No. 5 Atlanta Dream
The playoffs would see a showdown between the Storm, currently at 15-10, and the Dream, who are slightly behind at 14-10. The Dream have struggled, winning just four of their last ten, while the Storm managed to secure six victories in that span, earning them a solid fourth place.
Much of Seattle’s success can be attributed to their trio of all-stars: Skylar Diggins-Smith, Gabby Williams, and Nneka Ogwumike. Notably, Williams is experiencing a breakout season, especially on the defensive end.
As for the Dream, Alisha Gray is having an MVP-caliber season, and Rhyne Howard has also made her first All-Star appearance. Furthermore, acquiring Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner has solidified Atlanta’s position as a serious playoff contender, promising this to be among the most competitive first-round series in the league.
