The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is poised to enter a transformative phase in its history, as the league gears up for exciting changes in the 2025 season. Under the leadership of Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, the league is not only expanding the regular season but is also enhancing the playoff format—a move that signifies the growing popularity and demand for women’s basketball across the globe.
Starting in 2025, the WNBA will extend its regular season from 40 to 44 games, allowing fans to witness more matchups between their favorite teams and players. This change aligns with the increasing interest in women’s basketball, as evidenced by substantial growth in viewership and attendance in previous seasons. Additionally, Engelbert announced that the Finals will shift from a five-game series to a seven-game format, adopting a 2-2-1-1-1 structure where the higher-seeded team will host the opening games. This not only enhances competition but also raises the stakes for both athletes and teams, ensuring that the playoffs are a true test of skill and determination.
In a significant departure from past seasons, teams will alternate home games during the three-game first round of the playoffs, contrasting the previous model where the higher seed enjoyed the advantage of home games at the start. This adjustment is particularly noteworthy, creating a level playing field that could lead to unforeseen outcomes and thrilling matchups.
New Teams and Expansion Opportunities
The forthcoming season marks not only a growth in the number of games played but also the addition of new teams, a clear indication of the league’s expanding footprint. The Golden State Valkyries are set to join the league as the 13th team in 2025, followed by unnamed franchises in Toronto and Portland, which are expected to debut in 2026. Such expansions contribute to a more dynamic league, increasing competition and providing more opportunities for talented players to showcase their skills.
The WNBA’s expansion is indicative of its increasing desirability, leading to a lucrative media rights deal worth $2.2 billion for 11 seasons. This deal not only enhances the financial stability of the league but also promises to raise awareness and interest in women’s basketball, bringing it on par with its male counterpart.
Multiple factors have fueled the WNBA’s growth in recent years, including the emergence of exciting rookie talent such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, alongside established stars like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson, the league’s MVPs for 2023 and 2024. These athletes not only elevate the level of play but also serve as role models, inspiring the next generation of female players.
However, alongside this progress, there is a shadow cast by the resurgence of racism and online harassment faced by numerous players. Engelbert’s response to this pressing issue has drawn scrutiny, with her initial comments insufficiently addressing the gravity of these concerns. While she has since clarified her stance and condemned such behaviors, it underscores an ongoing need for accountability and support for players in the face of such adversity.
The WNBA is not an isolated phenomenon; it is part of a broader trend in women’s sports gaining traction. Executives from major media outlets recognize the significant opportunities available, fueling investment and interest. This zeitgeist suggests that women’s sports are more than just a passing trend—they herald a new era in athletics that is both lucrative and impactful.
As the current season’s Finals unfold, with the Minnesota Lynx facing off against the New York Liberty, fans have much to look forward to with anticipated nail-biting contests. The Lynx currently hold a critical edge, leading the best-of-five series 1-0 after a thrilling overtime victory. This moment is not merely a celebration of current achievements; it is a reflection of the path forward in the WNBA’s exciting evolution.
As the WNBA prepares for new heights, it is evident that the league’s expansion, structural updates, and increased popularity signify a burgeoning future for women in sports. With a committed leadership and a passionate fanbase, the WNBA is set to redefine the landscape of basketball and women’s athletics as a whole, emerging as a beacon of opportunity and excellence.