Phoenix Mercury, Atlanta Dream Clinch 2025 WNBA Playoff Spots

The Phoenix Mercury have clinched a spot in the 2025 WNBA playoffs, marking their second consecutive postseason appearance under head coach Nate Tibbetts. This achievement came after the Atlanta Dream's victory over the Dallas Wings, which secured Phoenix's playoff berth as they vie for a high seed in the standings. The Mercury have rebuilt their roster following the retirement of Diana Taurasi and the departure of Brittney Griner, with key contributions from All-Stars Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, leading to a strong offensive performance and a winning percentage on pace for the franchise's best since 2014. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Dream also clinched a playoff spot for the third straight year, showing significant improvement under new head coach Karl Smesko and benefiting from the performance of Allisha Gray. The 2025 WNBA playoffs are set to begin on September 14, featuring eight teams seeded by regular-season records, with the Finals expanding to a best-of-seven series for the first time. This playoff structure emphasizes the competitive positioning battles among the top teams, including the Mercury and Dream, as they prepare for the postseason.