2025 WNBA Playoffs: Exciting Matchups Begin as Dreams Chase Championship

ATLANTA, Ga. — The 2025 WNBA playoffs kicked off Sunday, with the top eight teams ready to fight for the championship title. The opening round saw fantastic performances, setting an energetic tone for the tournament.

The Atlanta Dream, who clinched the No. 3 seed, faced the 6-seed Indiana Fever in a best-of-three series. Both teams split their regular-season games 2-2 earlier this year. As the Dream prepare to exploit their home-court advantage, they aim to secure their first playoff series win since 2018.

“Our transition game is so important, and Jordin being in the lineup makes a big difference,” said Dream coach Karl Smesko. Jordin Canada’s ability to push the tempo will be vital, especially against Fever star Kelsey Mitchell, who will lead her team in scoring as they try to compensate for injuries.

In another matchup, the defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, dominated the Seattle Storm, winning 102-77. This victory extended the Aces’ winning streak to 17 games, with their confidence surging as they showcased deep talent across the roster.

Despite the defeat, Seattle aims to regroup quickly for Game 2, needing to improve their offensive execution and find ways to score against the Aces’ robust defense.

The New York Liberty returned to the playoffs aiming to defend their championship, defeating the Phoenix Mercury 76-69, but not without concerns over former MVP Breanna Stewart, who left the game with a knee injury.

Stewart’s health is paramount as they head into Game 2, slated for Wednesday. “It’s not the same knee as the one where I had surgery, which is a relief” Stewart mentioned after the game.

As exciting matchups continue, all eyes will be on the Dream and Fever as they battle in Game 2 on Tuesday, while the Runners-up will look to solidify their spots in the semifinals.