The playoffs 2025 WNBA are here and fans are ready to see which team will win the title. This year feels different because the Finals now use a longer format and a new team has already made history by reaching the postseason.

If you want to know the teams, schedule, and big stories from the 2025 WNBA playoffs, this guide has everything you need.

How the Playoffs Wnba Work?

The playoffs 2025 wnba began on September 14 2025. The system is simple and fair:

• First round is best of 3 games.
• Semifinals are best of 5 games.
• Finals are best of 7 games.

This is the first time the Finals will use a best of seven series. That means fans get to see more games and the true best team will rise to the top.

Playoffs 2025 WNBA Schedule:

Here are the key dates:

• First round runs from September 14 to September 21 2025.
• Semifinals start in late September and end in early October.
• Finals are from September 30 to October 17 2025 if all seven games are needed.

This makes the playoffs 2025 wnba one of the longest in league history.

Teams in the Playoffs:

Eight teams qualified this season based on their record. There are no conferences in the playoffs. Only the best eight overall make it.

Minnesota Lynx	34-10	Best record in the league
Las Vegas Aces	30-14	Strong title contender
Atlanta Dream	30-14	Great finish to the season
Phoenix Mercury	27-17	Veteran team with experience
New York Liberty	27-17	Tough in close games
Indiana Fever	24-20	Never gave up despite injuries
Seattle Storm	23-21	Built for the playoffs
Seattle Storm	23-21	First playoff run as a new

The biggest surprise is the Golden State Valkyries who made the playoffs in their first year.

First Round Matchups:

Here is how the first round looks:

• Minnesota Lynx vs Golden State Valkyries.
• Phoenix Mercury vs New York Liberty.
• Las Vegas Aces vs Seattle Storm.
• Atlanta Dream vs Indiana Fever.

The first round is short. Only three games at most. That means every basket counts and an upset can happen quickly.

What Comes Next?

If the top seeds win, the semifinals could be:

• Minnesota Lynx or Golden State Valkyries vs Phoenix Mercury or New York Liberty.
• Las Vegas Aces or Seattle Storm vs Atlanta Dream or Indiana Fever.

The winners of the semifinals move to the Finals game which will be the first ever best of seven in WNBA history.

Stories to Watch:

Minnesota on Top:

The Lynx had the best record. Many believe they are the favorite but the pressure is big.

Golden State’s First Season:

The Valkyries are new but already in the playoffs. Their run is a big success no matter what.

Aces vs Storm:

Las Vegas and Seattle have met many times before. Expect another classic battle.

Mercury vs Liberty:

This is an even matchup. It could go the full three games.

Indiana’s Fight:

The Fever had many injuries but still made it. They are the underdog to watch.

Where to Watch?

Fans can see the games on ESPN, ESPN2, and ABC. They can also stream on ESPN Plus and YouTube TV.

Why the 2025 Playoffs Are Special?

• Finals are now seven games not five.
• Golden State made the playoffs in their first season.
• The race was close with many teams near the same record.
• More prime time games for fans to enjoy

Conclusion:

The Playoffs 2025 WNBA will give fans drama and big moments. From the top seed Minnesota Lynx to the brand new Golden State Valkyries, every team has a story. With more games and new rivalries, this postseason will be one of the most exciting ever.