The WNBA will transition to a best-of-seven series format for the Finals beginning next season, according to commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who made the announcement ahead of Game 1 of the Finals featuring the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx. Engelbert also revealed that the playoffs would adopt a 1-1-1 format for the first round, ensuring every playoff team has at least one home game. Additionally, the regular season will increase from 40 to 44 games.
The league has utilized a best-of-five format for the Finals since 2005, following a best-of-three format from 1998 to 2004, and a single-game format in the inaugural season of 1997. The new best-of-seven series will use a 2-2-1-1-1 structure, with the higher seed hosting Games 1, 2, 5, and 7, while the opposing team will host Games 3, 4, and 6.
Engelbert expressed that this change provides fans with a championship series format akin to other sports leagues. The semifinals will remain a best-of-five format. Earlier playoff structures did not guarantee a home game for all teams, which the new 1-1-1 format addresses.
The commissioner noted that the WNBA’s decision to implement charter flights for all games will aid in the playoff format changes. Engelbert also announced the expansion draft for the league’s newest team, the Golden State Valkyries, scheduled for November 17 at 5 p.m. on ESPN. The Valkyries will select fifth in every round of the upcoming draft in April and are set to begin play next season.
The increase in regular-season games along with potential playoff extensions indicates the WNBA may run its season later into October, typically starting in mid-May. With no major international events next season, Engelbert deemed this an opportune moment for the playoff changes, which have been under consideration for several years.
Engelbert emphasized that the league’s growth and fan demand necessitated these adaptations to showcase top-tier basketball talent. As the WNBA plans to add more teams, with Toronto and Portland entering the league in 2026 and an anticipated additional team by 2028, the expansion would bring the total number of teams to 16, matching the league’s historical record.
The WNBA has seen increased viewership and media attention this season, driven by standout rookies such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. However, the popularity surge has also led to a rise in negative social media commentary. Recently, Engelbert faced backlash from players and the players’ association for her comments on CNBC regarding the hateful dialogue associated with the league. She later issued an apology and reaffirmed the league’s commitment to player safety and inclusivity.
“The hateful speech and threats directed at our players are troubling,” Engelbert acknowledged, adding that such behavior does not reflect the league’s values. The WNBA stands united against racism and all forms of hate, and the league strives to maintain its status as one of the most inclusive professional sports leagues.
Addressing the issue of social media hostility, Engelbert stated that the league would collaborate with the players’ association to tackle the problem on multiple fronts. She mentioned ongoing discussions with technology providers to explore potential solutions and highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health and bolstering security for players. Engelbert reiterated the league’s resolve to combat negativity and support its players, who have faced these challenges for an extended period.