The WNBA playoffs continue with big matchups tonight

The GIST: Wednesday’s postseason tip off was all about the favorites rising to the occasion and dominating against lower-ranked foes. But things are just getting started as the rest of the first-round matchups get underway tonight. Thrilling doesn’t do it justice.

Tonight’s games: First up, the No. 2 NY Liberty host the No. 7 Washington Mystics at 7:30 p.m. ET. Unfortunately, the ’Stics’ season-long injury plague never truly ended — powerhouse rebounder Shakira Austin will miss the first two postseason games after reaggravating a pesky hip injury.

• With Washington’s defense weakened, Breanna Stewart’s Big Apple squad can pounce on the opponent that’s been a thorn in their side all season long.

• Then, Satou Sabally and the No. 4 Dallas Wings take on Rhyne Howard and the No. 5 Atlanta Dream at 9:30 p.m. ET. Led by Sabally and Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas’ offense is downright dangerous, so Atlanta, although buoyed by lead rebounder and blocker Cheyenne Parker, will have their hands full.

Sunday’s games: The No. 3 Connecticut Sun are off to a hot start — they overpowered the No. 6 Minnesota Lynx 90–60 on Wednesday to take a 1-0 series lead. A dub Sunday at 1 p.m. ET will send Connecticut to the semis, so don’t expect Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner to take their feet off the gas any time soon.

• On the flip side, if Minnesota wants to stay in contention, it’ll take a big game from Napheesa Collier and a decrease in the Lynx turnovers. Chin up, squad.

• Finally, as expected, the No. 1 Las Vegas Aces cruised past the No. 8 Chicago Sky 87–59 on Wednesday. Much like the Sun, the Aces are one win away from a semifinal berth. See if the Sky can shake off their nerves and stop them Sunday at 3 p.m. ET.