It’s been a thrilling WNBA season. All kinds of records were broken on and off the court. There’s been a lot of praise over the rookies and veterans. Most teams were competitive throughout the year. Now for the playoffs.
The first round should be a quick but fun time. Four teams must advance to the second round by two games in a three game series. It’s time to pick which four have the best chances to extend their championship run.
#8 Golden State Valkyries v. #1 Minnesota Lynx
There are three lopsided first round series, starting with Golden State and Minnesota. The Lynx thrashed the Valkyries twice in the last two weeks. Golden State fans should applaud the team for making the playoffs their first season in the WNBA. Natalie Nakase’s also the favorite to win coach of the year. Still, Minnesota will go full throttle and the Valkyries don’t have the roster to contend with them.
Prediction: Lynx win series 2-0
#7 Seattle Storm v. #2 Las Vegas Aces
There’s no question who should win this series. The 16 straight game winning Aces versus the struggling Storm. The dominant Las Vegas center A’ja Wilson has more blocks on Seattle center Ezi Magbegor than any other WNBA player. This will get ugly fast.
Prediction: Aces win series 2-0
#6 Indiana Fever v. #3 Atlanta Dream
This series would be more interesting if the Fever had their injured guards healthy. Atlanta must finish the series fast and try to stay ahead of the remaining veteran playoff teams. Indiana won’t go quietly with how well guard Kelsey Mitchell and forward Damiris Dantas play. Their lack of playoff experience and overall talent make the Fever a quick out.
Prediction: Dream win series 2-0
#5 New York Liberty v. #4 Phoenix Mercury
The only first round series that should go all three games. Both New York and Phoenix won by blowouts in their regular season matchups. Don’t expect that to continue this series.
There’s a high probability the series winner goes to the championship. The Mercury have forwards Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, guards Kahleah Copper and DeWanna Bonner and centers Natasha Mack and Kalani Brown. The Liberty have forward Breanna Stewart and center Jonquel Jones back at full health. Guards Natasha Cloud and Sabrina Ionescu, and forwards Leonie Fiebich, Isabelle Harrison and Emma Meesseman round out a fantastic roster.
Coaching is always a factor since Sandy Brondello’s won titles in both cities. However, Phoenix has the better overall, determined roster. The chemistry between Thomas, Bonner, Sabally and Copper will be too much for the smaller Liberty. Jonquel Jones’ inconsistent play this season should be something to remember, especially in the second half of each game.
Prediction: Mercury win series 2-1
JD's Sportscorner 