The opening round matchups for the 2026 WNBA Playoffs have been finalized!
The first series will tip off on Sunday, Sept. 27, featuring these four contests:
Currently, TV schedules for the initial games have not been announced. However, the action will start at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, followed immediately by another first game at 4 p.m. ET on the same network. Prime will host a primetime game, and USA Network will air the final matchup at 9 p.m. ET.
Here’s a brief preview of each series—share your thoughts on these first-round battles in the comments.
No. 1 Minnesota Lynx vs. No. 8 New York Liberty
This matchup is a rematch of the 2024 WNBA Finals and arguably one of the most compelling 1-vs.-8 seed showdowns ever. The Liberty actually took the season series 2-1, including a recent win just a week ago, and some speculate the Lynx may have tactically tried to avoid facing them, whereas New York may have welcomed the challenge.
Both teams face high stakes: Minnesota is eager to capitalize now, especially with Napheesa Collier entering unrestricted free agency, but they gained momentum from a dominant win over Indiana in their season finale. Meanwhile, New York shook things up by replacing their championship-winning coach with NBA alum Chris DeMarco, aiming for fresh strategies after last year’s early playoff exit. Should the Liberty fall again in Round 1, major changes, potentially involving player moves, could be on the horizon.
The outcome of this series could have major repercussions for the WNBA offseason.
No. 2 Golden State Valkyries vs. No. 7 Dallas Wings
A strong 17-4 finish against the Los Angeles Sparks earned the Valkyries this favorable first-round setup. Given Golden State swept Dallas during the regular season, they smartly pushed for the win in LA, powered by Gabby Williams, whose stellar offense is vital for the Valkyries’ hopes of a deep playoff run—and even surviving Round 1.
Despite the Wings being considered the underdogs, the combination of a climactic performance from Paige Bueckers and clutch plays from Arike Ogunbowale poses a real threat to Golden State’s chances.
No. 3 Las Vegas Aces vs. No. 6 Indiana Fever
The Aces will start their title defense against the team that gave them the toughest fight last season. Their semifinal series went five games plus overtime, with Indiana, led by Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston, coming close to an upset.
Vegas enters confident after winning their last seven games, while the Fever are struggling after a heavy loss to a nearly full-strength Lynx. The key matchup will again be between South Carolina natives Aliyah Boston and A’ja Wilson. Boston has struggled with a leg injury late in the season but has historically challenged Wilson more than most opponents. If Boston can contain A’ja, expect another lengthy series; if not, the Aces might wrap things up early.
No. 4 Atlanta Dream vs. No. 5 Washington Mystics
This series promises a physical battle, with Angel Reese and Shakira Austin clashing inside. Both players have been among the league’s best in the season’s closing stretch, adding extra intensity.
Veterans DeWanna Bonner and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton bring valuable championship experience to their squads, but ultimately, the team with the hot hand from three-point range may decide this closely matched series.
Fan Take: These first-round matchups highlight the rising competitiveness and unpredictability of the WNBA, signaling an exciting playoff atmosphere for fans. The outcomes could influence major offseason moves and shape the future of the league, making this one of the most pivotal years in recent memory.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
