If you didn’t watch the 2025 WNBA Playoffs, you missed out on one of the most exciting finals matchups in years, where the Phoenix Mercury and the Las Vegas Aces battled for the title.
Winners of two previous WNBA championships, the Vegas Aces went for their third in just four years. Meanwhile, Mercury made it to the finals for the first time since 2021.
Two highly driven teams competing for the title of national champion–this is the kind of basketball that deserves more attention.
I wanted to interview students, coaches, and players for their predictions on who was going to win, Mercury or Aces, but I found out the Lincoln community wasn’t watching the playoffs or women’s basketball at all.
This shocked me, considering how much the WNBA has grown in popularity over the past two years.
Players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have brought record-breaking viewership to the league, with 1.3 million viewers on ESPN Networks in this year’s regular season.
There have also been exciting new additions to the league, such as the Golden State Valkyries, the Portland Fire (2026) and the Toronto Tempo (2026).
With the lack of engagement at Lincoln, I’m wondering how much progress has really been made when it comes to supporting women’s sports.
The country is excited about women’s basketball. Why isn’t Lincoln?
What will it take for the Lincoln community to be a part of the growing fanbase and give women’s basketball the attention it deserves?
The Mercury secured their spot in the finals by knocking out last year’s champion,the New York Liberty, and also eliminating the Minnesota Lynx. Despite being seen as the “underdog,” the Mercury proved they have enough “dog” in them to come out on top.
One of Mercury’s core players, Alyssa Thomas, has become a commanding facilitator showcasing strong rebounding, scoring and defensive hustle. Small forward Kahleah Copper also plays a significant role in the success of the Mercury as a reliable offensive contributor. She averaged 17.8 points per game in the 2025 playoffs.
Phoenix’s chemistry on the court has been impressive. They play as a unit, with strong defensive effort and efficient ball movement.
The Aces are coached by Hall of Famer Becky Hammon. Hammon was a significant player in the WNBA whose aggressive style of play, court vision and scoring abilities shaped her into the disciplined, experienced coach she is today.
At the center of her team is A’ja Wilson, a four-time MVP, who leads the team with 26.8 average points in the postseason. Wilson’s impressive ability to draw fouls sends her to the free-throw line 7.3 times per game, where she shoots 85.5%. Her defensive presence and rebounding capabilities make her one of the most intimidating players to face in the league.
Supporting Wilson are veteran point guard Chelsea Gray and shooting guard Jackie Young.
Gray’s elite playmaking adds leadership and composure to the team, while Young’s athleticism and versatility make her a vital team member.
Together, the Aces have learned to play to each other’s strengths. They know how to use Wilson in the paint and as a screen-er. Their one-on-one type of gameplay has carried them through many matchups, including winning national championships.
Aces took home the trophy, beating Mercury in Game 4 of the series.
Women’s basketball is proving its place in sports history. It’s time for Lincoln to watch, support, and get involved.