Basketball fans, we're in the thick of it. September is always when things get real in the WNBA, but the WNBA games schedule September 23 2025 is particularly intense. We are officially in the Semi-Finals. The regular season ended back on September 11, and the first-round chaos is behind us. Now, the stakes are higher than a Napheesa Collier jump shot.
If you're looking for the specifics of who's playing tonight, you've come to the right place. We're looking at Game 2 of the Semi-Finals. This is a best-of-five series, so tonight is basically the "swing" night that can either put a team on the brink of elimination or even the playing field.
The Matchups: WNBA Games Schedule September 23 2025
Tonight is a double-header on ESPN. You've got the heavy hitters of the league trying to punch their ticket to the newly expanded best-of-seven Finals.
Phoenix Mercury vs. Minnesota Lynx
- Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Location: Target Center, Minneapolis
- TV: ESPN
Indiana Fever vs. Las Vegas Aces
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- Time: 9:30 PM ET
- Location: Michelob ULTRA Arena, Las Vegas
- TV: ESPN
Honestly, the energy in these buildings is going to be electric. The Lynx have been a juggernaut all year, finishing with a 34-10 record, but the Mercury—led by that veteran core—always seem to find another gear when the lights get bright. Meanwhile, the Aces are trying to defend their dynasty against an Indiana Fever squad that has completely transformed the league's viewership and competitive balance this season.
Why Game 2 is the Real Turning Point
People talk a lot about Game 1 setting the tone. Sure, it does. But Game 2 is where the coaching adjustments happen. It’s where you see if a team can actually stop A'ja Wilson after she dropped 30 in the opener. Or if the Lynx’s defense can stay disciplined against the Mercury’s perimeter shooting.
The 2025 season has been a bit of a marathon. This was the longest regular season in history—44 games. By the time we hit the WNBA games schedule September 23 2025, these players have a lot of miles on their legs. Fatigue is a factor. Rotations get shorter. You’re essentially watching a chess match played at 100 miles per hour.
Surprises of the 2025 Postseason
Who would’ve thought we’d see the Golden State Valkyries make such a run in their inaugural year? They pushed the Lynx to the limit in the first round before finally bowing out. It’s wild to think an expansion team could be that competitive right out of the gate. It says a lot about the depth of talent coming out of the college ranks lately.
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Also, let's talk about the Indiana Fever. A lot of "experts" (quotes intended) thought they were a year or two away from being true Semi-Final contenders. Yet, here they are, staring down the back-to-back champs in Las Vegas on September 23. Whether they win the series or not, they've already proven the doubters wrong.
Breaking Down the Numbers
The Aces have been leaning heavily on their starting five, which is risky. If the Fever can push the pace and use their bench, we might see an upset. On the other side, Minnesota's ball movement is basically art. They lead the league in assists per game, and that's usually the secret sauce in the playoffs.
If you are betting or just playing fantasy, keep an eye on the injury reports. At this stage of the year, everyone is "questionable" with something, but it's the undisclosed "wear and tear" that usually decides who has the legs in the fourth quarter.
What's Next After Tonight?
Once the dust settles on the WNBA games schedule September 23 2025, the series shifts. Here’s the quick look ahead so you can clear your calendar:
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- Game 3: Friday, September 26. These games move to ESPN2.
- Game 4 (if needed): Sunday, September 28.
- Game 5 (if needed): Tuesday, September 30.
The winners of these two series will head to the WNBA Finals starting October 3. And remember, the Finals are a best-of-seven this year. That’s a massive change from the old best-of-five format. It’s more basketball, more drama, and honestly, probably more ice baths for the players.
If you’re planning to watch tonight, make sure your ESPN app is updated or your cable is actually working. These Semi-Final games have a habit of going into overtime lately. Grab your jersey, get some snacks, and settle in. The road to the championship is getting very narrow.
Next Steps for Fans:
Check the local broadcast listings if you are in the Minneapolis or Las Vegas markets, as some pre-game coverage starts an hour early. You should also keep an eye on the WNBA App for real-time advanced analytics and "CourtView" stats that you won't always see on the main ESPN broadcast.