Who will win each 2026 WNBA playoff series and why
The WNBA playoffs opened with four blowouts. Here’s who we think will advance and why, as teams look to make a championship run.
As the 2026 WNBA playoffs kick off, fans are eager to predict the outcomes of each series. Here's a breakdown of who is predicted to win each series and the reasons behind the predictions:
1. Minnesota Lynx vs. New York Liberty - Predicted Winner: Minnesota Lynx
The Lynx earned the top seed but faced a tough matchup against the Liberty. Despite New York's strong season, the Lynx's coaching, led by Cheryl Reeve, sets them apart. With a proven winner in Breanna Stewart, the Lynx will aim to avenge their 2017 title loss in the opening round. The teams will play Game 2 in New York on Tuesday, Sept. 29.
2. Las Vegas Aces vs. Indiana Fever - Predicted Winner: Las Vegas Aces
The Fever have a talented duo in Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, but their path to the semifinals looks unlikely after facing the Aces in the first round. Ja Wilson led the Aces to a convincing 102-85 win in Game 1, while the Fever struggled with Mitchell's limited scoring. Although Indiana's offense was the best in the regular season, the Aces' defense held Mitchell to 12 points. The teams will play Game 2 in Indianapolis on Tuesday, Sept. 29.
3. Atlanta Dream vs. Washington Mystics - Predicted Winner: Atlanta Dream
As the league's youngest team, the Mystics brought energy but lacked the experience of Atlanta's veterans. The Dream's 11-point third-quarter surge in Game 1, driven by DeWanna Bonner, highlights their resilience. While Washington has size and perimeter shooting, their struggles against the WNBA's best defense make Atlanta the likely winner. The teams will play Game 2 in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Sept. 30.
4. Golden State Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings - Predicted Winner: Golden State Valkyries
Dallas made a remarkable comeback, winning more games in 2026 than in 2025. However, they still have room for improvement. Paige Bueckers' 21 points in her postseason debut showcased Dallas' offensive potential, but their lack of consistent shooting hurt them against Golden State. The Valkyries' 3-point shooting and strong bench, led by Janelle Salaun and Tiffany Hayes, give them the edge. The teams will play Game 2 in Dallas on Wednesday, Sept. 30.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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