The 2026 WNBA postseason tipped off in high-stakes fashion on Sunday, Sept. 27. Eight franchises launched their championship pursuits across four competitive first-round series. Early moments of the matchups tested each squad’s mettle. Several contests quickly transformed into convincing blowout victories as elite league stars turned up the offensive intensity.
- New York Liberty Steal Game 1 Against Minnesota Lynx on the Road
- Las Vegas Aces Pummel Indiana Fever Behind A’ja Wilson Double-Double
- Atlanta Dream Outlast Washington Mystics Thanks to Strong Second Half
- Golden State Valkyries Set Tone With Record-Breaking Offense Against Dallas Wings
- Upcoming WNBA Playoffs Schedule
Leading the opening slate, powerhouse performances from seasoned veterans and emerging standouts set the tone for a thrilling postseason chase. From historic scoring nights to dominant road statements, Game 1 delivered unforgettable moments for basketball fans across the globe.
New York Liberty Steal Game 1 Against Minnesota Lynx on the Road
The New York Liberty took a monumental first step toward capturing their second title in three seasons. They secured a resounding 91-75 victory over the top-seeded Minnesota Lynx on the road. The win marked New York’s largest road playoff victory since 2015.
Forward Breanna Stewart spearheaded the charge with a magnificent game-high performance. She recorded 34 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, two steals, and two blocks. Stewart was backed by key offensive contributions from Leonie Fiebich, who poured in 16 points. Sabrina Ionescu added 13 points.
“We were ready to go. I think our entire group, we knew what it was going to take and everything that we’ve been through prepared us for this moment,” said Breanna Stewart following the 16-point triumph.
Kayla McBride paced the Lynx with 14 points and six assists. However, Minnesota struggled to find enough offensive rhythm to counteract New York’s second-half surge. The series now shifts to the Barclays Center in New York for Game 2 on Tuesday, where the Liberty will have an opportunity to close out the series at home.
Las Vegas Aces Pummel Indiana Fever Behind A’ja Wilson Double-Double
The No. 3-seeded Las Vegas Aces continued their dominant run by overwhelming the No. 6 Indiana Fever 102-85 at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Reigning MVP A’ja Wilson delivered a historic performance, posting 38 points, 16 rebounds, four blocks, and two steals.
With this outing, Wilson became the first player in WNBA history to record at least 30 points and 15 rebounds in multiple playoff games. It marked her 11th career 30-point postseason contest, extending her all-time league record. Backcourt stars Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray chipped in heavily, scoring 21 and 14 points respectively.
“It’s what I do. I don’t take a minute on this court for granted,” Wilson stated postgame. “So when I come out, I try to be the best that I can be and allow my teammates to do themselves as well and allow them to be the best.”
Atlanta Dream Outlast Washington Mystics Thanks to Strong Second Half
In another compelling matchup, the No. 4-seed Atlanta Dream rolled past the No. 5-seed Washington Mystics 92-77. Although Washington’s defense stifled Atlanta early on, a brilliant third-quarter offensive spark featuring 11 points from DeWanna Bonner shifted the momentum.
Rhyne Howard then took over down the stretch, finishing with a game-high 26 points, five steals, and a block. Angel Reese also made an impact by securing her first playoff double-double. She added 13 points and 12 rebounds to help the Dream secure a commanding 1-0 series lead.
Golden State Valkyries Set Tone With Record-Breaking Offense Against Dallas Wings
Known primarily as one of the league’s most disciplined defensive units throughout the regular season, the expansion Golden State Valkyries showcased an explosive offensive arsenal. They delivered this performance in their postseason debut at the Chase Center in San Francisco.
The Valkyries powered their way to a 104-80 victory over the Dallas Wings. Cecilia Zandalasini led the charge with 22 points. Tiffany Hayes added 21 points off the bench, and Gabby Williams contributed 20 points.
“The way our defense can be a little bit out of stickiness is getting stops, so we’re pushing it in transition,” Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase explained. “That’s our biggest thing. If we want to flow more, then we got to get stops… we know we can control our defense.”
Upcoming WNBA Playoffs Schedule
As the first round progresses into high-stakes Game 2 matchups, teams facing elimination look to bounce back:
- No. 8 New York Liberty at No. 1 Minnesota Lynx: Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 8:30 p.m. ET
- No. 6 Indiana Fever at No. 3 Las Vegas Aces: Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 6:30 p.m. ET
- No. 7 Dallas Wings at No. 2 Golden State Valkyries: Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 9 p.m. ET
- No. 5 Washington Mystics at No. 4 Atlanta Dream: Wednesday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. ET
If necessary, decisive Game 3 matchups will take place on Thursday, Oct. 1 and Friday, Oct. 2. These games will determine which franchises advance deeper into the 2026 WNBA postseason bracket.
