WBNA Today's League Roundup


WNBA league news (October 1, 2025)  :



Headlines & Big Moves

  • The WNBA has reached an 11-year media rights deal with Versant, beginning in 2026, which will bring at least 50 games each season to USA Network, including selected playoff and Finals games with full studio coverage. (Reuters)

  • Napheesa Collier, star forward for the Minnesota Lynx, publicly criticized WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, accusing league leadership of inconsistency, dismissive responses, and lack of accountability—especially in regard to officiating and player welfare. (People.com)

  • In playoff updates, Kelsey Mitchell (Indiana Fever guard) reportedly suffered a serious injury during Game 5 of the semifinal against Las Vegas Aces, putting a dampener on the Fever’s playoff run. (The Times of India)

  • The Phoenix Mercury have advanced to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2021, following an impressive semifinal win over the Minnesota Lynx. Their opponent will be the Las Vegas Aces, pending the outcome of the Fever vs. Aces Game 5. (Bright Side Of The Sun)



Schedule & Playoff Status

  • Game 5 between the Indiana Fever and Las Vegas Aces is on tonight. It’s a deciding game to see which team advances to the 2025 WNBA Finals. (WNBA)

  • The 2025 WNBA Finals will begin October 3, 2025, and will, for the first time, use a best-of-seven format (2-2-1-1-1) to determine the champion. (ESPN.com)

  • The current playoff bracket shows:

    • The Aces vs. Fever series is tied 2–2, with Game 5 pending. (WNBA)

    • The Mercury have already clinched their Finals berth by defeating the Lynx. (Bright Side Of The Sun)



 Insights & What to Watch

  • The new media rights deal is a sign of growing investment and confidence in the WNBA’s reach and market.

  • Player leadership and activism continue to be major themes—Collier’s comments show that players are pushing not just for better play, but better governance and respect.

  • Tonight’s Game 5 is huge: it decides who will face Phoenix in the Finals.

  • Injuries, depth, and experience in high-pressure moments will likely decide outcomes in tight games.