The WNBA playoff picture 2025 is heating up. Check out projected matchups, surprise teams, and who could make a deep postseason run.
As we move into the final stretch of the regular season, the WNBA playoff picture 2025 is more unpredictable—and exciting—than ever. With rising stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese elevating their teams, and league veterans refusing to back down, fans are in for a thrilling ride.
This year’s postseason chase is packed with tight standings, dramatic finishes, and breakout performances. Whether you’re tuning in for the competition or the chaos, this guide breaks down everything you need to know—from projected matchups to surprise contenders.
Current WNBA 2025 Standings (as of July 28)
| Seed | Team | Record | Streak |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Las Vegas Aces | 21–6 | W4 |
| 2 | New York Liberty | 20–7 | W3 |
| 3 | Indiana Fever | 18–9 | W5 |
| 4 | Chicago Sky | 17–10 | L1 |
| 5 | Connecticut Sun | 16–11 | W2 |
| 6 | Dallas Wings | 13–14 | L2 |
| 7 | Los Angeles Sparks | 12–15 | W1 |
| 8 | Phoenix Mercury | 11–16 | L1 |
Teams like the Fever and Sky are climbing quickly, fueled by rookie talent and fan-favorite drama. Meanwhile, playoff staples like the Aces and Liberty continue to dominate with experience and depth.
Projected First-Round Playoff Matchups
Under the WNBA’s current format, the top 8 teams (regardless of conference) qualify for the playoffs. Here’s what the bracket would look like today:
- (1) Las Vegas Aces vs. (8) Phoenix Mercury
- (2) New York Liberty vs. (7) LA Sparks
- (3) Indiana Fever vs. (6) Dallas Wings
- (4) Chicago Sky vs. (5) Connecticut Sun
These matchups have it all—rivalries, rookie showdowns, and major upset potential.
Caitlin Clark’s Fever Are More Than Just Hype
Let’s be honest—Caitlin Clark isn’t just putting up rookie numbers; she’s leading a legit playoff run. Averaging 22.8 points and 7.6 assists, Clark has helped transform the Fever from a rebuilding squad to a real contender.
Her most recent 29-point, 11-assist performance in a win over Dallas had fans comparing her to prime Sue Bird.
She’s also breaking viewership records, with the Fever’s last five games ranking among the most-watched WNBA broadcasts of 2025.
Angel Reese and the Sky: The Grit Factor
Another rookie making playoff noise? Angel Reese. The “Bayou Barbie” has brought toughness and identity back to the Chicago Sky. Leading the league in rebounds (11.7 RPG) and recording 15 double-doubles already, she’s helping her team hold the No. 4 seed.
Fans love her hustle—and her unapologetic confidence.
Sleeper Teams to Watch in the Playoffs
These teams could shock the league in a one-and-done or best-of-3 series:
Los Angeles Sparks
- Led by rookie sensation JuJu Watkins
- Scrappy defense and explosive guard play
- Playing their best basketball at the right time
Phoenix Mercury
- Veteran leadership from Diana Taurasi and Skylar Diggins-Smith
- Paige Bueckers stepping up as a dynamic playmaker
- Could pull off a major upset if healthy
Key Storylines Heading Into the Playoffs
- Clark vs. Reese Rematch? If the bracket shifts, fans are begging for this matchup in the semis.
- Can the Aces repeat? A’ja Wilson is still dominant, but the league has caught up.
- Is this Stewie’s year again? Breanna Stewart is quietly putting together an MVP-caliber season.
Social Media Reactions: WNBA Playoff Fever
On X (formerly Twitter), WNBA fans are already hyped for playoff season:
- “Caitlin Clark in the playoffs? LET’S GOOOO 🔥”
- “Sky vs. Fever is the WNBA rivalry we deserve.”
- “JuJu Watkins is about to turn the playoffs upside down.”
Expect TikToks, highlight reels, and debates to flood your feed for the next month.
TV Ratings Soar Heading Into the Postseason
The buzz is translating into record-breaking viewership:
- WNBA games in July averaged 1.4 million viewers per broadcast
- Clark’s Fever vs. Reese’s Sky drew 1.9 million viewers—highest of the season
- All playoff games will air on ESPN, ABC, and WNBA League Pass
This postseason could be the most-watched in WNBA history.
What Needs to Happen for Each Contender
Las Vegas Aces
- Stay healthy
- Rely on playoff-tested stars
- Maintain elite defense
Indiana Fever
- Clark keeps the turnovers down
- Boston controls the paint
- Bench scoring needs consistency
Chicago Sky
- Reese continues her double-double streak
- Role players step up in crunch time
- Need to hit free throws under pressure
New York Liberty
- Stewart stays hot
- Ionescu handles the late-game situations
- Must avoid slow starts
Conclusion: WNBA Playoff Picture 2025 Is Full of Potential Chaos (The Good Kind)
With elite veterans, fearless rookies, and passionate fanbases colliding, the WNBA playoff picture 2025 promises to deliver edge-of-your-seat action. Whether you’re riding with the Aces or cheering for a Cinderella story like the Sparks, this postseason has something for everyone.
So grab your gear, stream the games, and let’s make some noise for women’s basketball.
FAQs
1. How many teams make the WNBA playoffs in 2025?
The top 8 teams qualify, regardless of conference.
2. When do the WNBA playoffs start?
The first round is scheduled to begin in early September 2025.
3. Can rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese make deep playoff runs?
Absolutely. Both are key contributors to their teams and legitimate threats.
4. Where can I watch the 2025 WNBA playoffs?
Games will be available on ESPN, ABC, and WNBA League Pass.
5. Who is the favorite to win the WNBA title in 2025?
The Las Vegas Aces are the defending champs and top seed, but teams like the Fever and Liberty are close behind.
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🌐 External Source: WNBA Official Website
