The 2025 WNBA Playoffs are set to commence on Sunday, September 14th, featuring a star-studded field of eight teams battling for the league championship. This postseason marks a significant expansion of the league's championship format, with the WNBA Finals transitioning to a best-of-seven series for the first time in its 29-year history. The opening round will utilize a 1-1-1 format, ensuring each team hosts at least one game.

The top-seeded Minnesota Lynx enter the playoffs as favorites, boasting the league's best record and home-court advantage throughout. Led by MVP candidate Napheesa Collier, who achieved a rare 50-40-90 season, the Lynx are seeking their record fifth championship and first since 2017. Their quest for redemption comes after a heartbreaking overtime loss in last year's WNBA Finals.

Hot on their heels are the Las Vegas Aces, who have surged into the postseason on an incredible 16-game winning streak, the second-longest in WNBA history. The Aces, powered by two-time AP Player of the Year A'ja Wilson, are aiming for their third title in four seasons. The defending champion New York Liberty, despite facing significant injury challenges throughout the season, enter the playoffs with a wealth of experience and a healthy roster, positioning them as a strong contender.

A historic storyline unfolds with the Golden State Valkyries, who have defied expectations by reaching the playoffs in their inaugural season, becoming the first expansion team to achieve this feat. They face the daunting task of taking on the top-seeded Lynx in the first round. Other matchups include the Atlanta Dream, who set a franchise record with 30 wins and are considered one of the hottest teams entering the postseason, facing the injury-plagued Indiana Fever. The Phoenix Mercury will challenge the Liberty, while the Seattle Storm, featuring a league-high four All-Stars, will face the formidable Aces.

Notable absences will be felt in this year's playoffs, as young stars like Caitlin Clark are sidelined due to injury, and Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers also missed the postseason. However, the league remains rich with veteran talent and compelling narratives, including the Aces' historic winning streak, the Valkyries' unprecedented expansion success, and the Liberty's journey to defend their title amidst adversity. The expanded Finals format promises an extended showcase of elite women's basketball, with the championship series potentially running until October 17th.