Where to watch WNBA playoffs: Schedule, scores, TV channel for Liberty vs. Mercury, Lynx vs. Valkyries

As the 2025 WNBA playoffs heat up, fans are eager to find out where to catch all the live action, including critical matchups like the New York Liberty versus Phoenix Mercury and Minnesota Lynx against the Golden State Valkyries. This year’s first round has proven exciting, with the playoffs working a new format and promises of thrilling games ahead. For basketball enthusiasts looking to tune in, knowing the schedule, scores, and TV channels for this playoff season is crucial.

Current Playoff Picture

The playoffs opened with some fierce contests, showcasing the talent and competitiveness within the WNBA. Currently, both the Liberty and Lynx are leading their respective series, with a 1-0 advantage over the Mercury and Valkyries. The Lynx, having secured the No. 1 seed through a dominant regular season, are on the hunt for their fifth championship and aim for home court advantage throughout the playoffs.

The first round is set up in a best-of-three series format, and teams need to win two games to advance. The new playoff structure includes a 1-1-1 format, meaning that the games will alternate between teams’ home courts. This change aims to create a more equitable experience, allowing both higher and lower-seeded teams a fair shot regardless of their seeding.

TV Channels and Streaming Options

Fans can catch the games live on major networks such as ABC, ESPN, and ESPN2. For those who wish to stream the games, platforms like FuboTV offer options to watch games live, providing a great alternative for viewers without traditional cable packages. If you’re not subscribed to cable, utilizing a streaming service is an excellent way to stay engaged with the playoffs.

Detailed Game Schedule

Here’s a breakdown of the first-round schedule for the WNBA playoffs, indicated by Eastern Time:

• Game 2: Phoenix Mercury at New York Liberty

  • Date: Wednesday, Sept. 17
  • Time: 8:00 PM
  • Channel: ESPN/fubo

• Game 2: Minnesota Lynx at Golden State Valkyries

  • Date: Wednesday, Sept. 17
  • Time: 10:00 PM
  • Channel: ESPN/fubo

• Game 3: Atlanta Dream vs. Indiana Fever

  • Date: Thursday, Sept. 18
  • Time: 7:30 PM
  • Channel: ESPN2/fubo

• Game 3: Las Vegas Aces vs. Seattle Storm

  • Date: Thursday, Sept. 18
  • Time: 9:30 PM
  • Channel: ESPN2/fubo

• Game 3: Golden State Valkyries at Minnesota Lynx

  • Date: Friday, Sept. 19
  • Time: TBD
  • Channel: ESPN2/fubo
• Game 3: New York Liberty at Phoenix Mercury
  • Date: Friday, Sept. 19
  • Time: TBD
  • Channel: ESPN2/fubo

Semifinals and Finals

After the thrilling first round, the playoffs will transition to the semifinals, featuring a best-of-five format starting Sunday, Sept. 21. Following that, the WNBA Finals will adopt a best-of-seven structure, making for an intense conclusion to the season.

Key Matchups to Watch

The matchup between the Liberty and Mercury is particularly intriguing, as the Liberty aim to prevent the Mercury from capitalizing on any home-court advantage. Meanwhile, the Lynx, fresh from an outstanding regular season, will be looking to maintain their dominance against the Valkyries.

Equally compelling is how the Seattle Storm managed to stay alive in their series against the reigning champions, the Las Vegas Aces, showcasing the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball. The Indiana Fever’s efforts to fend off elimination against the Atlanta Dream create additional drama as the stakes continue to rise.

Conclusion

As the WNBA playoffs unfold, it’s shaping up to be an engaging season full of competition, strategy, and outstanding performances from elite female athletes. With multiple viewing options and an updated playoff structure, fans can immerse themselves in the excitement. Following the schedule closely will ensure you don’t miss any of the pivotal games determining which teams advance and ultimately compete for the coveted championship title. As we approach the finals, every game becomes crucial, making this a must-watch season in women’s basketball.

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