Since its launch in 1997, the WNBA has made numerous changes to its playoff format. Many of these tweaks were made to enhance competition and parity throughout the process. Some changes have included doing away with single-elimination games and seeding teams regardless of conference, making it possible for two teams from the same conference to compete for the title.
The WNBA has also altered its championship format multiple times. The league's first title was decided by a single game. In 1998, the WNBA adopted a best-of-three championship series format. From 2005-2024, the WNBA Finals were a best-of-five series. In 2025, the WNBA adopted a best-of-seven series for the Finals.
In 2025, the Las Vegas Aces took home their third WNBA title after defeating the Phoenix Mercury in a 4-0 series.
Here's a breakdown of the 29 championships in WNBA history, beginning with franchises that have won a league-high four titles.
4
Houston Comets (1997, 1998, 1999, 2000)
Minnesota Lynx (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017)
Seattle Storm (2004, 2010, 2018, 2020)
3
Detroit Shock (2003, 2006, 2008)
Las Vegas Aces (2022, 2023, 2025)
Los Angeles Sparks (2001, 2002, 2016)
Phoenix Mercury (2007, 2009, 2014)
1
New York Liberty (2024)
Chicago Sky (2021)
Indiana Fever (2012)
Sacramento Monarchs (2005)
Washington Mystics (2019)
Check out the ESPN WNBA hub page for scores, stats, standings, schedules and more.
