The WNBA Playoffs are in full swing and progressing quickly. Two first round series have already concluded as of Tuesday night, setting up a semi-finals matchup between last season’s final teams, the New York Liberty and the reigning back-to-back champs, Las Vegas Aces.
Playoff action kicked off Sunday (9/22) with four game ones. New York defeated Atlanta 83-69 (1-0). Connecticut enjoyed a blowout victory over Indiana 93-69 (1-0) as Caitlin Clark visibly struggled in her playoff debut. Minnesota bested Phoenix 102-95 (1-0) in an exciting, back and forth affair and finally, the reigning champion Aces took the series lead over Seattle 78-67 (1-0).
Tuesday (9/24) saw the brooms being brought out as both the Aces and the Liberty completed the sweep of their first round opponents to setup a rematch of last year’s finals in round two. In Brooklyn, Sabrina Ionescu had an explosive offensive outing with 36 points and nine assists, elevated by Jonquel Jones’ double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds.
Across the country in Las Vegas, the Aces managed to share the rock for for the win; Kelsey Plum led the way with 29 points, six rebounds and three assists, unanimous MVP A’ja Wilson produced a double-double with 24 points and 13 rebounds, and fan-favorite Chelsea Gray recorded 12 points, four rebounds, and nine assists.
The Liberty go into this semi-final matchup with a chip on their shoulders after losing to the Aces in 4 games in last year’s Finals, but the Aces have only improved over the course of the regular season. New York swept the regular season series as the Aces experienced a slump or two. The Aces finished strong, and were winners of nine of their last ten regular season games, with the only loss being to New York. The entire WNBA fanbase is looking forward to this rematch, although it is slightly disappointing that it won’t be in the finals.
Wednesday (9/25) will see game two of Indiana and Connecticut at 7:30PM on ESPN and game two of Phoenix and Minnesota at 9:30PM on ESPN. Friday (9/27) is slotted for potential game threes of those series.
Sunday (9/29) is game 1 of the Semi-finals with the Aces visiting New York for the first two games. The time of the matchup is to be determined.
Written By: Raven Ullah, WUFO Intern