2025 WNBA Playoffs: First Round Preview and Predictions

The 2025 WNBA Playoffs tipped off on Sunday with an action-packed four-game slate. But this isn’t just another postseason — it comes at a pivotal moment for the league, as players negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement ahead of the October 31 deadline.

While young stars like Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese won’t be taking part this year, established superstars such as A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, Alyssa Thomas, Breanna Stewart, and Sabrina Ionescu are ready to shine. The big questions remain: can the Liberty repeat as champions? Will the Lynx avenge last year’s Finals loss? Or will the Aces ride their second-half momentum back to the Finals?

Here are postseason predictions from Yahoo Sports’ Cassandra Negley and Maggie Hendricks:

No. 1 Minnesota Lynx vs. No. 8 Golden State Valkyries

Negley: Lynx in 2
Minnesota leads the league in most key stats, especially defense (95.9 rating). Experience should give them the edge, especially with Golden State unable to host at Chase Center.

Hendricks: Lynx in 2
The Valkyries made history reaching the playoffs in their inaugural season, but Minnesota’s depth and chemistry should power them to the semifinals.

No. 2 Las Vegas Aces vs. No. 7 Seattle Storm

Negley: Aces in 2
The Aces are the league’s hottest team, with MVP candidate A’ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray’s clutch play leading the way.

Hendricks: Aces in 2
After a 16-game win streak to close the season, Las Vegas looks unstoppable. Seattle has talent, but not the consistency to beat them.

No. 3 Atlanta Dream vs. No. 6 Indiana Fever

Negley: Dream in 3
Atlanta’s perimeter-heavy offense, rebounding, and overall depth should carry them past a short-handed Indiana squad.

Hendricks: Dream in 3
Making the playoffs was an achievement for Indiana, but without several key players, they’ll struggle to match Atlanta’s firepower inside and out.

No. 4 Phoenix Mercury vs. No. 5 New York Liberty

Negley: Liberty in 3
This matchup is as close as it gets, but with New York finally healthy, their postseason experience should push them through.

Hendricks: Liberty in 3
Stewart, Jones, and Ionescu give New York the edge. Their efficiency at the free-throw line and strong perimeter shooting are key advantages.

Who will reach the Finals?

• Negley: New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces

• Hendricks: Minnesota Lynx vs. Las Vegas Aces

Who will win it all in 2025?

That answer will come only on the court.