Full Breakdown
2025 WNBA Playoff Picture: Aces' Historic Streak and Valkyries' Inaugural Success
9/6/2025, 2:26:44 PM
Key Developments in the 2025 WNBA Season
As the 2025 WNBA regular season approaches its conclusion, the playoff picture is becoming clearer, marked by significant achievements and intense competition. The Minnesota Lynx have secured the No. 1 seed with a record of 32-9, ensuring home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Aces have made headlines by extending their winning streak to 13 games, culminating in a victory over the Lynx, which solidified their position as serious title contenders. The Aces currently hold a 27-14 record, tied with the Atlanta Dream and Phoenix Mercury, but they possess the tiebreaker advantage.
In a historic turn, the Golden State Valkyries have clinched a playoff spot in their inaugural season, becoming the first expansion team in WNBA history to achieve this feat. Their victory over the Dallas Wings not only secured their postseason berth but also set the record for the most wins by an expansion team, currently standing at 23.
Remaining Playoff Contenders
With the regular season concluding on September 11, the playoff race is heating up. Six teams have already clinched spots: Minnesota Lynx, Las Vegas Aces, Atlanta Dream, Phoenix Mercury, New York Liberty, and Golden State Valkyries. Three teams—Seattle Storm, Indiana Fever, and Los Angeles Sparks—are vying for the final two playoff berths. The Fever, currently at 21-20, can secure their spot with a win or a Sparks loss in their upcoming games.
Official Statements & Responses
The Aces' coach, Becky Hammon, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus despite their winning streak, stating, “We’re just about the next game.” A'ja Wilson's performance has been pivotal, as she scored 31 points against the Lynx, tying a league record for the most games scoring over 30 points in a season. The Valkyries' president, Jess Smith, expressed pride in their achievements, stating, “This has been a season of defying expectations, and our fans have been the driving force behind every milestone we've achieved.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding the playoffs, the New York Liberty have faced criticism for their recent performance, having lost seven of their last eleven games. This decline has raised concerns about their ability to secure a top-four seed, which would grant them home-court advantage in the first round.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the playoff picture is largely set, discrepancies exist regarding the final seeding. The Aces, Dream, and Mercury are all tied at 27-14, but their final standings will depend on the outcomes of their remaining games. Additionally, the situation surrounding the Indiana Fever is complicated by Caitlin Clark's season-ending injury, which has significantly impacted the team's performance and playoff aspirations.
What's Next
The playoffs are set to begin on September 14, with the first round featuring a best-of-three series format. The Valkyries will host their first playoff game at SAP Center in San Jose due to a scheduling conflict at Chase Center. As the regular season concludes, all eyes will be on the final matchups that will determine the playoff seeding and potential championship contenders.
