WNBA Analysis and Explainers
The playoff format, the standings math and what decided the night — how the WNBA turns its regular season into a playoff bracket.
How Every WNBA No. 1 Draft Pick Has Done Since 1997
Eight of the 30 WNBA No. 1 draft picks since 1997 became MVP and 16 won Rookie of the Year. Every top pick's rookie season, honors, titles and team record.
Every WNBA MVP Since 1997, and How Often Their Team Won the Title
The WNBA MVP's team has won the title in 12 of 30 seasons since 1997. Every MVP with their team's record and playoff finish, repeat winners and MVPs by team.
WNBA Scoring Reached a Record 87.1 Points a Game in 2026
WNBA teams averaged a record 87.1 points per game in 2026, up from 81.7 in 2025 and 65.7 in 2001. Points, threes, free throws and pace for every season.
How the WNBA Playoffs Work, and How Often the Higher Seed Wins
WNBA playoff format explained: 8 teams, 3 rounds, a best-of-seven Finals. Since 2016 the higher seed has won 58 of 77 matchups and No. 1 seeds 6 of 11 titles.
How Every WNBA Expansion Team Fared in Its First Season
Only 1 of 13 WNBA expansion teams since 1998 made the playoffs in year one; together they went 148-304. Every first season ranked, with Toronto and Portland.
Everything WNBA on Vertize Sports
The WNBA schedule month by month, the playoff bracket and a simulator that rebuilds both conference tables from your scores: how to read them and how it works.