The WNBA playoffs are about to kick off, marking the most exciting and dramatic part of the season. The league will soon crown a champion for the 2024 season, concluding what has been a historic year for the WNBA.
Several compelling storylines from the regular season are expected to carry over into the playoffs. The Liberty have been dominant throughout the season and are aiming to secure their first title. On the other hand, A’ja Wilson and the Aces are eyeing a three-peat after winning back-to-back championships.
Youthful and ambitious teams like the Fever, led by Caitlin Clark, are also looking to make deep postseason runs. The Fever recently ended an eight-year playoff drought and are eager to make their mark.
Interested in how the WNBA playoffs work? Read on to find out more.
WNBA Playoff Bracket
Here is a current look at the playoff bracket if the season were to end today:
- New York Liberty vs. Atlanta Dream
- Minnesota Lynx vs. Phoenix Mercury
- Connecticut Sun vs. Indiana Fever
- Las Vegas Aces vs. Seattle Storm
Number of Teams in the Playoffs
The WNBA playoffs include the top eight teams from the regular season, regardless of conference affiliations. This format ensures that a significant portion of the league competes for the championship, with only four teams missing out on the postseason.
Number of Rounds in the Playoffs
The WNBA playoffs consist of three rounds: the first round, the semifinals, and the finals. Teams are seeded based on their regular-season records, with matchups predetermined according to the initial seeding. There is no reseeding during the playoffs.
In the semifinals, winners from the first round face off to determine who advances to the next stage.
Series Length in the Playoffs
Series lengths vary depending on the round in the WNBA playoffs. The first round is a best-of-three series, with the higher-seeded team hosting Games 1 and 2. If necessary, Game 3 is played at the lower-seeded team’s venue.
The semifinals shift to a best-of-five format, with the higher seed hosting Games 1, 2, and a potential Game 5. The lower seed hosts Games 3 and, if needed, Game 4.
The WNBA Finals also follow a best-of-five series structure. The higher seed hosts Games 1, 2, and a potential Game 5, while the lower seed hosts Games 3 and, if necessary, Game 4.
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