The 2025 WNBA playoffs are set to begin on September 14, marking the start of an intense postseason battle. The WNBA Finals could extend as late as October 19, with the final regular-season games concluding on September 11. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect in this year’s playoffs:

Playoff Format

The top eight teams from the WNBA’s 13-team league will advance to the playoffs. Teams are seeded based on their regular-season performance. The playoff structure includes three rounds:

1. First Round: Best-of-three series
2. Semifinals: Best-of-five series
3. Finals: Best-of-seven series

The 2025 WNBA Finals will follow a 2-2-1-1-1 format, where the higher-seeded team hosts Games 1, 2, 5, and 7, while the lower-seeded team hosts Games 3, 4, and 6.

Key Players to Watch

Stars like Sabrina Ionescu, Paige Bueckers, and Napheesa Collier are expected to lead their teams in the quest for the championship. Ionescu’s New York Liberty are coming off their first franchise title in 2024, where they defeated the Minnesota Lynx in a thrilling 3-2 series.

Historical Context

The Houston Comets remain the only team to have won three consecutive WNBA championships, achieving this feat from 1997 to 2000. Additionally, only two No. 1 draft picks have won the championship in their rookie season: Tina Thompson in 1997 and Maya Moore in 2011.

2024 Championship Recap

In 2024, the New York Liberty, led by Ionescu and Finals MVP Jonquel Jones, clinched their first title by defeating the Minnesota Lynx. This victory has set high expectations for the Liberty as they aim to defend their championship in 2025.

For more updates, scores, and stats, visit the ESPN WNBA hub page.