The anticipation for the WNBA playoffs is reaching a fever pitch as the bracket for the 2024 postseason has finally been unveiled! With the final seeds confirmed on Thursday, fans are set for an action-packed series beginning this Sunday.

The day of reckoning unfolded with the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, and Washington Mystics all vying for the coveted eighth playoff spot. The Dream secured their place with a triumphant 78-67 victory against the New York Liberty, demonstrating their resilience and tenacity. Meanwhile, the Connecticut Sun claimed the No. 3 seed, dominating the Chicago Sky with an impressive 87-54 win at home.

Now that the stage is set, let’s dive into the full schedule for the thrilling first round of the playoffs, which follow the best-of-three format. Check out the matchups:

First Round Schedule:

- **Sunday, September 22 (Game 1)** - 1 p.m.: No. 8 Atlanta Dream at No. 1 New York Liberty, ESPN - 3 p.m.: No. 6 Indiana Fever at No. 3 Connecticut Sun, ABC - 5 p.m.: No. 7 Phoenix Mercury at No. 2 Minnesota Lynx, ESPN - 10 p.m.: No. 5 Seattle Storm at No. 4 Las Vegas Aces, ESPN

- **Tuesday, September 24 (Game 2)** - 7:30 p.m.: No. 8 Atlanta Dream at No. 1 New York Liberty, ESPN - 9:30 p.m.: No. 5 Seattle Storm at No. 4 Las Vegas Aces, ESPN

- **Wednesday, September 25 (Game 2)** - 7:30 p.m.: No. 6 Indiana Fever at No. 3 Connecticut Sun, ESPN - 9:30 p.m.: No. 7 Phoenix Mercury at No. 2 Minnesota Lynx, ESPN

- **Thursday, September 26 (Game 3, If Necessary)** - Times TBD: No. 1 New York Liberty at No. 8 Atlanta Dream, ESPN2 - Times TBD: No. 4 Las Vegas Aces at No. 5 Seattle Storm, ESPN2

- **Friday, September 27 (Game 3, If Necessary)** - Times TBD: No. 3 Connecticut Sun at No. 6 Indiana Fever, ESPN2 - Times TBD: No. 2 Minnesota Lynx at No. 7 Phoenix Mercury, ESPN2

**Semifinals** (matchups occurring on the same dates): - Game 1: Sunday, September 29 - Game 2: Tuesday, October 1 - Game 3: Friday, October 4 - Game 4: Sunday, October 6 - Game 5: Tuesday, October 8

**Finals** Schedule: - Game 1: Thursday, October 10 - Game 2: Sunday, October 13 - Game 3: Wednesday, October 16 - Game 4: Friday, October 18 - Game 5: Sunday, October 20

Matchup Previews:

No. 1 New York Liberty vs. No. 8 Atlanta Dream

The Liberty have a rich playoff history, making the playoffs 18 times, yet they remain hungry for their first championship. With the league's top offensive output and a balanced defense, they boast standout players like Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, making them formidable contenders. The Dream will rely heavily on Rhyne Howard's scoring and veteran Tina Charles’s experience, but overcoming New York will be a tall order.

No. 2 Minnesota Lynx vs. No. 7 Phoenix Mercury

Could this be Diana Taurasi's last ride? The legendary guard has hinted at retirement, and the Mercury will be determined to make this postseason memorable. Facing off against the Lynx, who have been sensational with players like Napheesa Collier shining, the Mercury will have their work cut out for them.

No. 3 Connecticut Sun vs. No. 6 Indiana Fever

This tantalizing matchup features presumptive Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, whose dazzling play has captured attention all season for the Fever. Indiana's resurgence has been impressive, but they will need to fully engage against the seasoned Sun in what looks like the most competitive matchup in the first round.

No. 4 Las Vegas Aces vs. No. 5 Seattle Storm

The Aces are on the hunt for a three-peat led by A’ja Wilson, who continues to raise her game in the playoffs. Seattle, rejuvenated since last year’s struggles, has its own star power in Gabby Williams and Jewell Loyd. Don’t underestimate the Storm, as they could bring a fierce challenge to the Aces' aspirations.

As the excitement builds, basketball fans are gearing up for a riveting playoff season. Keep your eyes glued to the action; it promises to be electrifying!