Sunday's WNBA Playoffs: Four Matchups Begin
The WNBA playoffs are officially here, and the first round matchups begin on Sunday, September 17th, with four exciting series kicking off. Here's a preview of each series and what to watch for:
1. New York Liberty vs. Atlanta Dream
Where: State Farm Arena (Atlanta, GA)
Time: 12:00 PM ET
What to watch for: The Liberty, led by the dynamic duo of Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, will be looking to advance to the second round for the first time since 2015. However, the Dream are a tough opponent, featuring the league's leading scorer in Aari McDonald. The series could come down to the wire, and the team that can contain the other's stars will likely prevail.
Key Factors:
- Liberty Offense: Can New York continue their impressive scoring form, especially from beyond the arc?
- Dream Defense: Atlanta's ability to slow down Stewart and Ionescu will be crucial.
2. Washington Mystics vs. Chicago Sky
Where: Wintrust Arena (Chicago, IL)
Time: 3:00 PM ET
What to watch for: This is a rematch of last year's semifinals, where the Sky won in a dramatic five-game series. Both teams have experienced significant roster changes since then, but the rivalry remains strong. The Mystics, led by Elena Delle Donne, will be looking to avenge last year's loss, while the Sky, led by the league MVP Kahleah Copper, will aim to defend their title.
Key Factors:
- Mystics Health: Delle Donne has been dealing with injuries all season, and her health will be a key factor in this series.
- Sky's Depth: Chicago's bench has been a strength all season, and they'll need to maintain that momentum in this series.
3. Las Vegas Aces vs. Phoenix Mercury
Where: Footprint Center (Phoenix, AZ)
Time: 6:00 PM ET
What to watch for: This is the most intriguing matchup of the first round, as it features two of the league's most talented teams. The Aces, led by the reigning MVP A'ja Wilson, have been dominant all season, while the Mercury, led by Brittney Griner, are looking to make a deep playoff run.
Key Factors:
- Griner's Return: The Mercury's success will hinge on how Griner can perform after her long absence.
- Aces' Offense: Las Vegas has been a scoring machine, and they'll need to maintain that firepower against Phoenix's tough defense.
4. Dallas Wings vs. Connecticut Sun
Where: Mohegan Sun Arena (Uncasville, CT)
Time: 9:00 PM ET
What to watch for: The Sun, led by Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner, are the number two seed and are looking to make a strong run for the championship. The Wings, led by Arike Ogunbowale, are the youngest team in the playoffs but are a dangerous team with plenty of offensive firepower.
Key Factors:
- Wings' Youth: Can the Wings overcome their lack of experience and upset the Sun?
- Sun's Depth: Connecticut has a deep and talented roster, and they'll need to leverage that advantage against Dallas.
The first round of the WNBA playoffs promises to be exciting and unpredictable. With so many talented teams and star players, every game will be a battle. Don't miss out on this exciting start to the postseason!
