The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is poised to usher in a thrilling new era for its dedicated fans and players alike. With an unwavering commitment to promoting women’s sports, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has revealed a significant expansion in the league’s upcoming 2025 season. Among the transformative changes is the increase of the regular season from 40 games to an impressive 44 games, coupled with a transition of the Finals series from a five-game to a seven-game format. These enhancements aim to provide fans with more engaging opportunities to witness the exceptional talent within the league.
The Finals will adopt a new home game structure, with the 2-2-1-1-1 format enabling the top-seeded team to host the initial games. Complimenting this, the playoff format will see a switch in hosting roles for the three-game initial round, ensuring a more equitable distribution of home game advantages. By improving the playoff structure, Engelbert is making a concerted effort to address long-standing concerns and optimize competitive fairness, a move that has the potential to attract a broader viewership.
The decision to expand not only stems from a burgeoning fan base but also from a notable surge in the league’s overall popularity. Engelbert has indicated that the enhancements have been in consideration since the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped sporting events worldwide. However, the unique growth trajectory of the WNBA since then—fueled by increased engagement metrics, viewership, and media play—served as the final catalyst for these strategic changes.
The introduction of charter flights for teams has further solidified the league’s operational capabilities and efficiency, allowing for better player management and travel arrangements. Engelbert emphasized the intersection of these factors as pivotal, stating during a recent press conference, “The league’s growth and increased demand for WNBA basketball made this the ideal time to expand the schedule, lengthen the Finals, and provide fans more opportunities to see the best players in the world compete at the highest level.”
Excitingly, the WNBA will also see the addition of the Golden State Valkyries, marking the league’s expansion to 13 teams starting in 2025. Engelbert has announced that two more franchises will join the fray—one in Toronto and another in Portland, both making their debuts in 2026. As discussions continue for a potential 16th team, it is clear that the WNBA is not merely settling for incremental growth but is aggressively pursuing a broader national footprint.
The recent media rights deal, valued at an impressive $2.2 billion over 11 seasons, underscores the market’s acknowledgment of the WNBA’s growing popularity. Tied closely to the NBA’s deal, this contract represents a significant financial investment in women’s basketball, laying a strong foundation for the league to flourish.
The increasing viewership and attendance figures can be partly attributed to the influx of new talent. Rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, alongside established stars such as Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson, have captivated fans and contributed to record-breaking engagement statistics. However, this upward trajectory is juxtaposed with stark realities faced by many players. There have been growing reports of racism and online harassment, raising serious concerns about safety and respect within the sport.
Engelbert’s handling of these issues has faced scrutiny as her comments during a CNBC appearance did not directly address these concerns. Despite later clarifying her stance against hate and racism, the controversy reflects deeper societal challenges that women athletes continue to confront. The league and its stakeholders must promote an environment that unequivocally condemns these negative behaviors while fostering a culture of support and unity among players.
As the WNBA prepares for the upcoming season, the momentum is undeniable. With innovative changes and an aggressive expansion strategy, the future of women’s basketball is brighter than ever. As fans gear up to witness their favorite stars in action, the league’s commitment to growth and inclusivity suggests that a new chapter in women’s professional sports is just beginning. The ongoing Finals, currently featuring a gripping showdown between the Minnesota Lynx and the New York Liberty, will undoubtedly be a fitting prelude to what lies ahead for the WNBA and its vibrant community.