Sports have a way of pulling us into every moment, the heartbreak, the triumph, and the unexpected twists that leave fans breathless. The 2025 WNBA playoffs are proving to be no different. From thrilling comebacks to disappointing collapses, this postseason has already delivered unforgettable storylines. Fans are asking: who are the real winners and losers of this year’s playoff battles? Let’s dive in.
2025 WNBA Playoff Winners and Losers
The focus keyword, 2025 WNBA playoff winners and losers, couldn’t be more fitting. The first round has already revealed which teams and players are stepping up under pressure, and which ones are faltering when it matters most.
Resilient Minnesota Lynx Lead the Pack
The Minnesota Lynx are the first team to officially punch their ticket to the semifinals. Facing the Golden State Valkyries on the road, the Lynx erased a daunting 17-point deficit to seal a 75-74 victory. MVP candidate Napheesa Collier and her teammates leaned into their experience, proving why Minnesota continues to be one of the WNBA’s most consistent playoff forces.
Head coach Cheryl Reeve praised her team’s fight, reminding fans and players alike that resilience wins championships. With three days of rest ahead, the Lynx will be fully prepared for their semifinal matchup.
Phoenix Mercury’s Big 3 Shine Bright
The Phoenix Mercury showed the heart of champions after their disappointing Game 1 loss to the New York Liberty. In Game 2, they silenced a Brooklyn crowd by dismantling the defending champs, 86-60.
The Mercury’s new-look Big 3, Kahleah Copper, Satou Sabally, and Alyssa Thomas, each scored in double figures, keeping their season alive. When all three stars score at least 10 points, Phoenix is unbeaten this season. Fans can feel the momentum shifting as the Mercury prepare for a decisive Game 3 back home in Phoenix.
Satou Sabally’s Redemption
After her rough shooting night in Game 1, Satou Sabally reminded everyone why she’s one of the league’s brightest stars. Shooting more efficiently in Game 2, she scored 15 points and played with confidence. Her postgame message said it all: “We’re not done yet.” Sabally’s bounce-back performance was a turning point for the Mercury and highlighted her growth as a leader.
Golden State Valkyries’ Historic Season
Even in defeat, the Golden State Valkyries earned their spot among the playoff winners. In their very first season as a WNBA expansion team, they not only made the postseason but pushed the No. 1 seed Lynx to the brink.
Despite falling short in a one-point loss, Golden State left fans inspired. The SAP Center crowd erupted in chants of “GSV,” celebrating the team’s Cinderella season. Selling out all 22 regular-season home games and setting an all-time attendance record, the Valkyries have already changed the WNBA landscape.
0-1 Teams Prove Their Grit
The Indiana Fever, Seattle Storm, and Phoenix Mercury each faced elimination and responded with dominant wins. From Indiana’s convincing victory over the Atlanta Dream to Seattle’s shocking upset of the Las Vegas Aces, these teams reminded fans that playoff basketball is about refusing to give up.
2025 WNBA Playoff Losers
Of course, with winners come losers, and this postseason has exposed some surprising struggles.
The New York Liberty Collapse
The defending champion New York Liberty looked anything but title-worthy in their Game 2 loss to Phoenix. Shooting just 30.2% from the field and failing to score more than 60 points, the Liberty had their worst home playoff showing in franchise history.
Coach Sandy Brondello benched her starters in the fourth quarter, signaling that adjustments are desperately needed before Game 3. What once looked like a clear path to back-to-back championships now seems far less certain.
Sabrina Ionescu’s Off Night
Superstar Sabrina Ionescu had one of the roughest games of her career, going just 3-of-13 from the field and 2-of-6 from the free throw line. Known for her shooting efficiency, Ionescu’s struggles highlighted the Liberty’s deeper issues. Her own words said it best: “We have to go out and play like our season is on the line, because it is.”
Barclays Center Crowd
Even Liberty opponents commented on how quiet the Barclays Center was during Game 2. Kahleah Copper admitted she expected more noise and energy from the crowd, while Sabally claimed Phoenix’s home arena will be louder. Whether it was due to the Liberty’s lackluster performance or fan fatigue, the Brooklyn faithful didn’t bring the playoff atmosphere their team needed.
Breanna Stewart’s Health Concerns
Playing through a knee sprain, Breanna Stewart looked far from her usual dominant self. Scoring just six points in 20 minutes, Stewart’s injury raises serious questions about the Liberty’s ability to advance. With her limited mobility, New York faces an uphill battle.
1-0 Teams Missed Opportunities
Outside of Minnesota, the other top teams failed to close out their series when given the chance. The Aces, Liberty, and Dream all stumbled, allowing their opponents to push things to a decisive Game 3. That inability to seal the deal could haunt them as the postseason grinds on.
FAQs About the 2025 WNBA Playoffs
- Who advanced first in the 2025 WNBA playoffs?
The Minnesota Lynx were the first team to advance, defeating the Golden State Valkyries in two games. - What happened to the New York Liberty in Game 2?
The Liberty suffered their worst home playoff loss, falling 86-60 to the Phoenix Mercury with poor shooting and lackluster energy. - Is Breanna Stewart healthy?
Stewart played through a knee sprain but looked limited, raising doubts about her effectiveness moving forward. - Which expansion team made the playoffs in 2025?
The Golden State Valkyries made the postseason in their inaugural season and nearly upset the top-seeded Lynx. - When is the next Mercury vs. Liberty game?
Game 3 will be played Friday in Phoenix at the PHX Center.
Conclusion: The 2025 WNBA playoff winners and losers showcase the drama and unpredictability that make sports so compelling. From the Lynx’s resilient march to the semifinals to the Liberty’s shocking struggles, fans are being treated to high-stakes action with every game. As we head into decisive Game 3s, the storylines are only growing richer, and the road to the championship is wide open.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available reports and statements. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not represent official WNBA commentary.
