The 2025 WNBA playoffs are upon us, and the competition promises to be fierce. This year's postseason features eight teams battling for the championship, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. Let's examine the key questions surrounding each team's playoff journey, analyzing their potential for success and the challenges they face.
**Minnesota Lynx vs. Golden State Valkyries:** The top-seeded Lynx boast a formidable roster, but their relative lack of size in the frontcourt could be exploited by taller opponents. Can they overcome this potential vulnerability, or will the Valkyries, known for their unpredictable lineups and depth, pull off an upset?
**Las Vegas Aces vs. Seattle Storm:** The Aces enter the playoffs riding a dominant 16-game win streak. Their improved defense, spurred by innovative coaching strategies, is a key factor in their success. However, their reliance on switching could create mismatches that the Storm, despite rebounding struggles, could capitalize on with their veteran-laden lineup.
**Atlanta Dream vs. Indiana Fever:** The Atlanta Dream's exceptional defense, anchored by Brittney Griner and bolstered by the strong performances of Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, contrasts with their lack of a dominant big. Can their guard-heavy offense and stifling defense secure a championship without traditional dominance in the paint? The Fever, hampered by injuries, hope to leverage their high-powered offense and a favorable first-round matchup against a slower-paced Atlanta team.
**Phoenix Mercury vs. New York Liberty:** Alyssa Thomas's all-around brilliance remains the Phoenix Mercury's greatest asset. Can her leadership and scoring prowess overcome their size disadvantage against the Liberty, who also face questions about their consistency given injury issues during the regular season? The Liberty's potential to deploy a three-big lineup could prove a major challenge.
This year's expanded playoffs, including a best-of-seven Finals, introduce new variables to consider. Player fatigue, travel demands, and the ability to adjust to different game styles will be critical factors determining the ultimate champion. The unpredictable nature of the playoffs makes for exciting basketball, but the analysis above sheds light on the significant factors at play in this year's WNBA postseason.
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Originally published at: https://defector.com/eight-teams-eight-questions-2025-wnba-playoffs-preview
