The WNBA is set to introduce a series of major changes to its postseason and regular season formats, starting in the 2025 season. These adjustments are intended to improve both the spectator experience and the league's level of competition, according to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert's announcement on Thursday.
Move to Best-of-7 Finals
The best-of-five format for the WNBA Finals will be replaced by a best-of-seven series starting with the upcoming season.. This change aligns the WNBA Finals with the championship formats used in other major professional sports leagues.
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Engelbert confirmed that the new structure would follow a 2-2-1-1-1 format. The higher-seeded team will host Games 1, 2, 5, and 7, while the lower seed will host Games 3, 4, and 6. Engelbert emphasized that this change aims to give fans a championship format they are accustomed to, while also creating more high-stakes matchups.
The WNBA semifinals will continue to use the existing best-of-five format.
Changes to First Round of Playoffs
In addition to the Finals, the first round of the WNBA playoffs will also see a shift in structure. The league will adopt a 1-1-1 format for the best-of-three series, ensuring that all participating teams will have at least one home game. Previously, the first two games were held at the higher-seeded team’s venue, with the third game (if necessary) hosted by the lower seed.
This new arrangement guarantees home-court advantage for all playoff teams and should increase the level of fan engagement across the league.
Regular Season Expands to 44 Games
To accommodate the league's growing popularity, the WNBA will increase the number of regular-season games from 40 to 44 starting next year. This signifies a new phase in the league's continuous growth and shows its dedication to giving supporters additional chances to see elite women's basketball.
The season will likely extend further into October to accommodate the additional games and the potential for longer playoff series. However, Engelbert reassured that the league would carefully balance its schedule, particularly in years when international events such as the Summer Olympics and FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup take place.
Charter Flights and Playoff Logistics
With the increase in games and changes to the playoff format, travel logistics will also see improvements. Engelbert announced that the league’s move to charter flights for all teams this season will help mitigate the challenges that could arise with a more demanding schedule. This will ensure teams have adequate recovery time and reduce travel-related fatigue during the postseason.
Golden State Valkyries Expansion Draft Announced
Another major development on the horizon is the expansion of the WNBA. The league’s 13th team, the Golden State Valkyries, will officially join the competition next season. Their expansion draft is set for November 17 at 5 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN. The Valkyries, who appointed Natalie Nakase as head coach, will also pick fifth in every round of the WNBA Draft in April.
The Valkyries are the first of three new teams expected to join the league. Toronto and Portland are scheduled to begin play in 2026, with an additional team projected to enter the league by 2028. This expansion will bring the league’s total to 16 teams, matching the highest number in WNBA history.
Addressing Social Media Harassment
While the WNBA has enjoyed increased media attention and larger viewership, it has also been met with growing challenges, particularly on social media. The league has faced criticism over remarks made by Engelbert that did not adequately address racist, misogynistic, and anti-LGBTQ+ commentary directed at players.
In response, Engelbert has since apologized and reiterated the WNBA’s commitment to protecting its athletes from hateful speech. Engelbert stated, "The hate speech and threats aimed against our players are concerning." "The WNBA's character and fan base are not reflected in that kind of behavior. We oppose racism and bigotry in all its forms together.
Engelbert also noted that the league is working with technology providers to find solutions that can mitigate online harassment. In addition to improving technology, the WNBA is prioritizing mental health, reinforcing physical security, and expanding its monitoring of online spaces.
Ongoing Commitment to Growth and Inclusivity
As the WNBA continues to grow, Engelbert emphasized that the league remains dedicated to its core values of inclusivity and diversity. "According to her, the WNBA is among the world's most diverse and inclusive professional sports leagues. "We will persist in advocating for those principles and seize every chance to assist our athletes."
The upcoming changes to the season, playoffs, and team expansion reflect the league’s broader commitment to growing the game and providing fans with an enhanced basketball experience.
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