If you’re a Chicago Sky fan, you might not have much to cheer about this season—but trust me, the WNBA Playoffs 2025 still have plenty in store for you. One series, in particular, is worth your time: the Golden State Valkyries vs. the Minnesota Lynx.
Now, you might be wondering—why should Sky fans care about two other teams going head-to-head? The truth is, there are a lot of fun connections, lessons, and even familiar faces in this matchup that tie back to Chicago. Let’s break it down.
A Historic Playoff Debut for Golden State
Think back to when the Chicago Sky joined the WNBA in 2006. It took them seven long years—until 2013—to finally make their first postseason appearance.
The Golden State Valkyries didn’t need that kind of patience. In their very first season, they shocked everyone by finishing 23-21 and earning a playoff spot. That’s not just good—it’s history-making. No other expansion team has ever pulled this off in year one.
Their reward? Facing the league’s powerhouse: the Minnesota Lynx. The Lynx finished with the best record in the league at 34-10 and are gunning for their sixth WNBA championship after falling short in last year’s Finals.
Game 1 tips off Sunday, and the big question is: Can Golden State keep this golden run alive, or will Minnesota prove why they’re the winningest franchise in league history?
Sky Connections in the Series
This series isn’t just about the Valkyries and the Lynx—it has plenty of Chicago fingerprints on it too.
- Tyler Marsh vs. Natalie Nakase
- Marsh, now the Sky’s head coach, used to be an assistant with the Las Vegas Aces.
- Nakase, who is leading the Valkyries, also spent time on that same Aces coaching staff. Both started their first head coaching gigs in 2025—but it’s Nakase who’s enjoying the dream rookie season, while Marsh’s Sky stumbled with just 10 wins.
- Maria Conde
- Remember the Sky’s 2019 draft pick? Golden State scooped her rights in the Expansion Draft. She hasn’t suited up in the WNBA yet, but Sky fans may still feel a connection.
- Courtney Williams
- Chicago fans know her well—she suited up for the Sky in 2023. Now she’s a guard for the Lynx.
- Angel Reese & Alissa Pili Trade
- On 2024 WNBA Draft night, Chicago and Minnesota made one of the most memorable swaps. Chicago landed Angel Reese, while Minnesota picked up Alissa Pili. Safe to say, both teams still feel the ripple effects.
How Chicago Matched Up in 2025
Here’s where things get real. Chicago didn’t exactly have much luck against these two playoff teams this season:
- Against Golden State Valkyries:
- Lost all three games.
- The first two were close (within single digits).
- The third? A brutal 90-59 blowout at home.
- Against Minnesota Lynx:
- Went 1-2 overall.
- After dropping the first game, the Sky shocked everyone by upsetting the Lynx 87-81 in July.
- Minnesota bounced back two days later, led by MVP candidate Napheesa Collier, who averaged 24.7 points and 6.3 rebounds across the matchups.
So yes, Chicago struggled—but there were glimpses of fight, and that’s something to build on.
What Sky Fans Can Learn from This Series
Even if your team isn’t in the WNBA Playoffs 2025 , there’s still a lot to gain by watching closely:
- Golden State shows what’s possible. They prove that a team can be competitive right out of the gate with the right leadership, roster, and culture. Chicago can study that blueprint.
- Minnesota is a model of consistency. Year after year, the Lynx stay in the championship conversation. Their drafting, player development, and leadership are lessons for any franchise looking to bounce back.
- Player development matters. Reese, Collier, Williams—these are all examples of how investing in the right players can shape the future of a team.
WNBA Playoffs 2025: Final Thoughts
The WNBA Playoffs 2025 aren’t just about crowning a champion—they’re also a learning ground for fans and teams alike. For Chicago Sky supporters, the Valkyries vs. Lynx series is more than just a playoff matchup. It’s a chance to see what works, what doesn’t, and what your own team might learn as they aim to return to the postseason.
So grab your popcorn, tune in on Sunday, and enjoy some high-level basketball. Who knows—you might even find yourself rooting for the underdog Valkyries to keep their miracle season alive.
👉 What do you think, Sky fans—are you pulling for Golden State’s Cinderella story or Minnesota’s push for dynasty status?
✍️ Ammar is a digital marketer, domain investor, and blogger with over 6 years of experience in creating trusted content online. On Glyca.com, he shares the latest trending news and honest affiliate product reviews to help readers stay informed and make smarter decisions.
