The 2025 WNBA Playoffs are set to commence, featuring a significantly revamped postseason structure designed to enhance fan experience and player equity. This year marks the debut of a best-of-seven series for the WNBA Finals, the longest championship series in league history, reflecting the WNBA's growth since its inception. The first round has also seen a crucial alteration, moving to a 1-1-1 format to guarantee each team at least one home playoff game, a change implemented in response to fan feedback and ensuring greater fairness for all participating teams.

The top eight teams in the league, regardless of conference affiliation, have secured a spot in the playoffs. Leading the pack is the Minnesota Lynx, who clinched the No. 1 overall seed and home-court advantage throughout the postseason. They are closely followed by the Las Vegas Aces and the Atlanta Dream, who secured the second and third seeds, respectively. The Phoenix Mercury, New York Liberty, Indiana Fever, Seattle Storm, and the inaugural season's surprise, the Golden State Valkyries, round out the playoff field.

This year's first-round matchups pit the No. 1 Minnesota Lynx against the No. 8 Golden State Valkyries, a historic achievement for the expansion team. The No. 2 Las Vegas Aces will face the No. 7 Seattle Storm, while the No. 3 Atlanta Dream are set to play the No. 6 Indiana Fever. Finally, the No. 4 Phoenix Mercury will go head-to-head with the No. 5 New York Liberty in a highly anticipated series.

The shift to a best-of-seven Finals format means that the championship series could extend until October 17, providing fans with potentially more high-stakes basketball. This change, along with the modified first-round schedule, underscores the league's commitment to evolving the postseason. The WNBA Finals will be broadcast on ESPN Networks, as will all other playoff games, ensuring broad accessibility for fans across the country.

Beyond the on-court action, the WNBA is also celebrating its top performers with a comprehensive schedule of end-of-season awards. These accolades, ranging from MVP to Rookie of the Year and various All-WNBA teams, will be announced throughout the playoffs, adding another layer of excitement to the postseason. The league's commitment to recognizing individual and team excellence highlights a successful regular season marked by record viewership and attendance, even amidst challenges.