From CNBC: 2024-10-11 11:53:54

In Game 1 of the 2024 WNBA Finals, Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx scored the game-winning basket against the New York Liberty at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The regular season and Finals round will expand in the 2025 season, with 44 games and seven-game Finals, respectively, announced by WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Playoff format changes include three-game first-round playoffs with alternating hosts. The popularity surge and introduction of charter flights were influences for changing the schedule. The league’s 13th team, the Golden State Valkyries, is set to debut in 2025, with two more expansion teams announced for 2026. The WNBA’s recent media rights deal was worth $2.2 billion for 11 seasons. 2024 season saw increased viewership, attendance, and engagement, attributed to new rookies and established stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Breanna Stewart, and A’ja Wilson. Criticism arose when Engelbert didn’t condemn racism or online harassment, sparking backlash, but she later clarified and condemned “hate or racism.” Women’s sports are gaining popularity and attracting attention from media executives and investors. Currently, the 2024 Finals are between the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty, with the Lynx leading the series 1-0.



Read more at CNBC: WNBA Finals to be 7 games in 2025 season