History of WNBA Finals in Timeline
The WNBA Finals is the championship series of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). It represents the culmination of the league's postseason activities each fall. From its inception until 2002, the series was known as the WNBA Championship. The Finals determine the ultimate winner of the WNBA season.
1997: Single Championship Game
In 1997, the WNBA Finals consisted of a single championship game to decide the champion.
1997: Inaugural WNBA Finals
In 1997, the first WNBA Finals was held, marking the conclusion of the inaugural WNBA season.
1998: Best-of-Three Series
In 1998, after the addition of two teams, the WNBA Finals became a best-of-three series.
2001: WNBA Championship Name
In 2001, the finale series was known as the WNBA Championship.
2002: Name Change
In 2002, the WNBA Championship series was renamed the WNBA Finals.
2005: Finals Format Change
In 2005, the WNBA Finals adopted a 2–2–1 format, where the first, second, and fifth games of the series are played at the arena of the team with home court advantage.
2005: Best-of-Five Format
In 2005, the WNBA Finals adopted a best-of-five format.
2016: Seeding Change
In 2016, the WNBA began seeding teams #1 through #8 regardless of conference, making it possible for two teams from the same conference to meet in the Finals.
2024: Lynx Appearances in Championships
In 2024, the Minnesota Lynx have made the most appearances in the WNBA championships, with a total of seven.
2025: Finals Format Change
In 2025, the WNBA Finals are scheduled to switch to a best-of-seven series with a 2–2–1–1–1 format, similar to that of the NBA Finals.
2025: Best-of-Seven Series
In 2025, the WNBA Finals will become a best-of-seven series with a home court system of 2–2–1–1–1.
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