The WNBA postseason has now narrowed down to the final four teams, setting the stage for an exciting semifinals filled with compelling storylines. On one side, legendary Breanna Stewart goes head-to-head with Defensive Player of the Year Angel Reese. Meanwhile, the New York Liberty, after an impressive upset in the first round, aim to surprise again by challenging the well-balanced Atlanta Dream.
On the other side of the bracket, the Las Vegas Aces face the Golden State Valkyries. Led by A’ja Wilson, the defending champions advanced after a close call against the Indiana Fever. Now, they prepare to battle “Ballhalla,” as the Valkyries came back dramatically to win Game 3 against the Dallas Wings.
Here is the updated schedule for the semifinal matchups:
2026 WNBA Playoffs Semifinals Schedule (All times ET):
No. 2 Golden State Valkyries vs. No. 3 Las Vegas Aces
- Game 1 (Golden State): Sunday, Oct. 4, 4 p.m. on NBC
- Game 2 (Golden State): Wednesday, Oct. 7, 9:30 p.m. on Peacock and NBCSN
- Game 3 (Las Vegas): Friday, Oct. 9, 9:30 p.m. on Peacock and NBCSN
- Game 4 (Las Vegas, if needed): Sunday, Oct. 11, TBD on NBC
- Game 5 (Golden State, if needed): Wednesday, Oct. 14, TBD on Peacock and NBCSN
The reigning champions, Las Vegas, were pushed to the edge by Caitlin Clark and the Fever but Wilson delivered when it counted most, scoring 36 points and grabbing 10 boards in the deciding Game 3. She was aided by teammates Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, and Jewell Loyd, all of whom provided crucial contributions throughout the opening round.
Coached by Becky Hammon, the Aces have claimed the championship in 2022, 2023, and 2025. Securing a fourth title in five years would cement their place as one of the sport’s greatest dynasties. The Valkyries, coming off a thrilling comeback victory, aim to unseat Vegas. Under coach Natalie Nakase, Golden State operates a disciplined defensive and three-point shooting system, with stars like Gabby Williams, Veronica Burton, and Tiffany Hayes ready for a legacy-defining series. Notably, Las Vegas swept their three regular-season matchups against Golden State, dominated by Wilson’s stellar averages.
No. 4 Atlanta Dream vs. No. 8 New York Liberty
- Game 1 (Atlanta): Sunday, Oct. 4, 2 p.m. on ABC
- Game 2 (Atlanta): Wednesday, Oct. 7, 7:30 p.m. on ESPN
- Game 3 (New York): Friday, Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m. on ESPN2
- Game 4 (New York, if needed): Sunday, Oct. 11, TBD on ABC
- Game 5 (Atlanta, if needed): Wednesday, Oct. 14, TBD on ESPN
The New York Liberty make history as the first No. 8 seed to sweep a No. 1 seed, having ousted the Minnesota Lynx. Breanna Stewart delivered an extraordinary performance, averaging 27.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 combined steals and blocks per game. New York’s surrounding cast, including Sabrina Ionescu, Leonie Fiebich, Jonquel Jones, and Han Xu, provided excellent perimeter shooting support.
Guided by first-year head coach Chris DeMarco, the Liberty chase their third finals trip in four years. Their recent history features a 2023 finals loss to the Aces, a championship victory over Minnesota, and a first-round exit last year. The Atlanta Dream aim for their first-ever title and first finals appearance since 2013, making their first semifinal appearance since 2018. Their defense powered a first-round sweep of the Washington Mystics, with key contributions from Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, Jordin Canada, and defensive anchor Angel Reese. In the regular season, Atlanta claimed two of three victories over New York, both coming late in September.
Updated 2026 WNBA Title Odds
(Streaming details and opinions on betting odds originally published by The Athletic.)
Fan Take:
This semifinal lineup highlights the incredible talent and competitive depth the WNBA has built, showcasing both established dynasties and rising contenders. For fans and the sport, these matchups promise thrilling basketball and could further elevate the league’s profile as it celebrates grit, star power, and historic milestones.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
