Halfway through the WNBA Playoffs 2024

As the 2024 WNBA playoffs progress, new and old basketball fans alike are being treated to intense competition. With the playoffs kicking off in late September, the league’s seen viewership like never before, historically topping the charts just like the season itself saw.

Unlike other sports, the WNBA has a three-round playoff with the first round being best-of-two and the following two rounds being the best-of-five.

Playoff format and early rounds

This year’s playoffs feature a mix of familiar faces and surprising newcomers. Being in the action means that wins and losses have already occurred. Sent home early consisted of- Atlanta Dream, Seattle Storm, Phoenix Mercury, and Indiana Fever which most notably holds WNBA rookie-of-the-year Caitlin Clark.

Semifinal showdowns

With the first round completed, attention turned to the semifinals. The Aces faced the Liberty in what many anticipated would be a high-scoring affair. The Aces, featuring league MVP A’ja Wilson, showcased their offensive firepower and depth. However, this has not been enough as Liberty currently leads 2-0, only needing one more victory to punch their ticket to the championship.

In the other semifinal, the Lynx heated things up with the Sun. The series is currently tied at 1-1 as both teams look to notch the lead. Neither team has one true dominant points creator, but instead, both teams seem to be challenging the depth of one another’s benches.

Key players and storylines

Throughout the playoffs, several players have emerged as standout performers. A’ja Wilson continues to shine for the Aces, demonstrating why she is one of the league's star talents. Her consistent scoring and rebounding have been a major asset to the Aces and toward a potential back-to-back championship.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the bracket, Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier is a lethal asset on both sides of the court. Collier has had one of the best offensive performances of her career this season so her run for a potential Defensive Player of the Year award contributes to the Lynx's ability to remain in this tournament.

Looking ahead

As the playoffs approach the final stages, fans await the WNBA Finals. The semifinals themselves have proved to spark competition as teams have competitive matchups forcing what is to be an intense finals come time.

Will the Aces remain on top, and clinch their back-to-back titles? Or will a new team rise to power in this new generation of WNBA All-Stars?

Lots of ball remain as semifinal games will continue Friday, Oct. 4.

Bronwyn Liber is a second-year student majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email brl5354@psu.edu.