Clinched. 2024 WNBA Playoff Preview: Will the Aces Three-Peat?
by nxus Contributor, Sloane
The regular season is wrapping up, fans are left with a familiar bittersweet feeling—bidding farewell to months of thrilling matchups while gearing up for the most intense games of the year. With the WNBA playoffs around the corner, the excitement is palpable. The real question is: which teams will rise to the occasion, and who are you betting on? Let’s dive into the teams that have already clinched a playoff spot.
New York Liberty
After falling short against the Las Vegas Aces in last year’s playoffs, the New York Liberty are back with a vengeance, clinching a postseason spot early. Last season’s addition of Breanna “Stewie” Stewart, Courtney Vandersloot, and Jonquel Jones formed a “super team,” but they couldn’t quite capture the championship. Now, with a full season to build chemistry, the Liberty are more determined than ever.
*from left to right: Jonquel Jones , Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu
Stewart has been a standout, recently recording a season-high 30 points and averaging 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. Jonquel Jones has provided much-needed size and versatility, averaging 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. Meanwhile, Sabrina Ionescu, despite her struggles with consistency and turnovers, remains a lethal scoring threat. With all their talent, the Liberty have the tools to win it all. The question is, can they avoid last year’s pitfalls and seize the moment?
Minnesota Lynx
Napheesa Collier
The Minnesota Lynx secured their postseason spot with time to spare, thanks to their deep bench and a key trade acquisition. Myisha Hines-Allen has been a game-changer, injecting new energy into the lineup. Gold medalists Napheesa Collier and Courtney Williams returned from the Olympics with renewed fire. Collier has been unstoppable, averaging 25.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, shooting an impressive 66% from the field. Williams has also been in top form, posting 14.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, shooting 53%. With their depth and rejuvenated veterans, the Lynx look like serious contenders. Can they keep the fire burning through the playoffs?
Connecticut Sun
Alyssa Thomas
When you hear “defense wins games,” think of the Connecticut Sun. They led the league in scoring defense and had the highest defensive rating, clinching a postseason spot early. DiJonai Carrington, who secured a starting role this season, has been a defensive stopper, shutting down opponents while improving offensively. But the Sun aren’t just about defense. Alyssa Thomas, averaging 11 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists per game, continues to impress as a playmaking forward. DeWanna Bonner remains the team’s elite scorer, leading with 16 points per game. The return of Tiffany Mitchell from injury adds even more depth. Known for her speed and versatility, Mitchell provides another scoring option and defensive intensity. With their lineup coming together, the Sun might be the unstoppable force that brings home the title. Will defense alone be enough, or will they need more to secure the trophy?
Las Vegas Aces
As the defending back-to-back champions, the Las Vegas Aces are on the brink of a potential three-peat, solidifying their dominance. With six Olympians, including MVP A’ja Wilson, the Aces are clear favorites. Wilson, averaging 27.1 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game, continues to be their cornerstone. Despite the grueling schedule, Coach Becky Hammon has skillfully managed the team, maximizing contributions from the bench.
A'ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum
A'ja Wilson, Jackie Young
Alysha Clark brings veteran leadership, averaging 5.9 points per game, while rookie Kate Martin has provided a much-needed spark with 2.9 points per game. As the playoffs approach, the question is: can the Aces’ depth carry them to another championship, or will the season’s wear and tear catch up with them? All eyes are on Las Vegas as they attempt to make history.
Playoff Anticipation
As the regular season winds down, the full playoff picture is still taking shape, with several teams battling to secure their spots in the weeks ahead. However, with the powerhouses already locked in, one thing is certain—we’re in for an incredible show. The intensity is about to reach new heights as the best in the league vying for the ultimate prize. Let’s see what surprises the rest of the teams bring as we head into what promises to be an unforgettable postseason.
