The WNBA will transition to a best-of-seven series format for the Finals starting next season, according to Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who announced the decision during a media session prior to Game 1 of the Finals featuring the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx. Engelbert revealed that the league will implement a 1-1-1 format for the best-of-three first round, allowing all playoff teams to host at least one home game. The regular season will also expand from 40 to 44 games.
Since 2005, the WNBA Finals format has been best-of-five, while prior to that, it was a best-of-three from 1998 to 2004. The inaugural WNBA championship in 1997 was decided in a single game. The new best-of-seven series will adopt a 2-2-1-1-1 format, with the higher seed hosting Games 1, 2, 5, and 7, while the opposing team hosts Games 3, 4, and 6. Engelbert emphasized that this change will provide fans with a championship format similar to other sports.
The semifinals will remain a best-of-five format. Previously, the first round featured the higher seed hosting the first two games of a best-of-three series, with the potential for a third game at the lower seed’s venue. The new 1-1-1 format guarantees a home game for each playoff team, enhancing the playoff experience.
Engelbert also noted that the WNBA’s decision to use charter flights for all games beginning this season will support these playoff format changes. Furthermore, she announced that the expansion draft for the newly introduced Golden State Valkyries, the league’s 13th team, is scheduled for November 17 at 5 p.m., to be broadcast on ESPN. The Valkyries will select fifth in every round of the upcoming standard draft in April and will begin their season next year.
As the WNBA increases its regular season games, the league is expected to push the end of the season later into October, typically starting in mid-May. The scheduling will also need to account for international events like the Summer Olympics and the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, which are not held next season, making this an opportune time for the playoff changes.
Engelbert described the league’s growth and increased demand for WNBA basketball as a catalyst for implementing these changes to enhance fan engagement with the top players in the sport. The league also plans for future expansion, with Toronto and Portland set to join in 2026 and an additional team anticipated by 2028.
Despite a celebrated draft class this season that has raised viewership and media interest, there have been challenges, such as a rise in negative social media comments. Engelbert faced criticism previously for remarks that some players felt did not adequately address the hateful discourse surrounding the league. In response, she acknowledged this issue and assured players of the WNBA’s commitment to inclusivity.
Engelbert stated, “The hateful speech and threats directed at our players are troubling. That type of conduct is not representative of the WNBA’s character or fan base. As a league, we stand united in condemning racism and all forms of hate.”
The Commissioner committed to a multi-faceted approach in collaboration with the players’ association to tackle issues related to social media and player safety. This includes leveraging technology, prioritizing mental health, enhancing physical security, and increasing monitoring. Engelbert highlighted the league’s resolve to support players dealing with negativity and vowed to continue advocating against such behavior.