The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is on the verge of a transformative evolution, promising fans more action, more teams, and ultimately, more enjoyment of the game they love. With a blend of increased game opportunities and a heightened competitive structure, the 2025 season is gearing up to be one for the record books.
In a groundbreaking announcement, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert revealed that the league will expand its regular season from 40 to 44 games starting in 2025. This shift not only provides fans with more opportunities to watch their favorite stars in action but also represents a strategic move designed to elevate the league’s profile. The increase in games is a response to the growing demand for professional women’s basketball, showcasing the recognition of the WNBA’s rising status in the sports domain.
The decision to expand the regular season is underpinned by a context of post-pandemic recovery wherein the league has been experiencing significant growth. Engelbert highlighted how the installation of charter flights for teams has alleviated some logistical challenges faced by players, further contributing to a team-friendly environment that supports both player performance and fan engagement.
In tandem with the expanded regular season, the WNBA playoffs will undergo a crucial reconfiguration. The Finals will now consist of a best-of-seven series rather than the previous five-game format, allowing for a more comprehensive battle for the championship. This new playoff structure adopts a 2-2-1-1-1 home game arrangement, fostering an atmosphere of suspense and anticipation as teams vie for the title. Interestingly, the first round of the playoffs is transitioning to an alternating hosting format, which privileges fairness and adds an unexpected twist to the competition.
Engelbert suggested that the league had been contemplating changes to the playoff format since the turbulent Covid-19 period. However, it is the undeniable growth of the league and its audience, combined with the logistical improvements made off the court, that provided the momentum needed for these changes to materialize. By drawing in more fans and allowing for greater parity among teams, the WNBA aims to intensify the playoff experience.
The WNBA is not merely expanding its game schedule; it is also welcoming new teams into the fold. The debut of the Golden State Valkyries as the league’s 13th team is a milestone worth celebrating. Adding to this excitement, two unnamed expansion teams in Toronto and Portland are set to commence play in 2026. Engelbert has also indicated that talks are ongoing to secure a 16th team, signaling a dedicated effort to promote women’s basketball across North America.
These additions reflect a broader trend observed in women’s sports, attracting the attention of media executives and investors alike. The recent media rights deal, valued at $2.2 billion over 11 seasons, further exemplifies this increasing market interest. This burgeoning financial support is not only crucial for sustaining the teams and enhancing their suggestions for the future but also signals a wider societal shift in recognizing women’s sports as credible and engaging.
Despite the optimism surrounding the league’s growth, challenges remain. Concerns regarding racism and online harassment faced by players have cast a shadow over the excitement. Engelbert has been called upon to more openly address these issues. Although she condemned hate and racism after criticism surfaced, the fact that these topics arose underscores the difficult environment that still exists in sports and society at large.
The evolving narrative around the WNBA is characterized by both exhilarating possibilities and substantial challenges that need to be navigated. The emergence of recognized stars alongside powerful rookie talent promises to enhance viewership and engagement even further. As excitement builds for the Finals series—where the Minnesota Lynx lead against the New York Liberty—one thing is clear: the WNBA is poised for a captivating future filled with opportunities to grow, compete, and inspire.
Through embracing expansion and addressing critical societal issues, the WNBA demonstrates its commitment to delivering not just a game, but an important cultural movement aimed at equality, excellence, and entertainment in women’s sports.