NBA Cup: Why Every Game Counts in the Championship Race
The NBA season might be fresh, but excitement is already building. In just a few weeks, the league will crown an MVP, a team will lift a trophy, and a new banner will wave proudly.
To add to the thrill, colorful courts will catch your eye as we dive into the second edition of the in-season tournament, kicking off on November 12.
Photo via Clutch Sports
Every one of the 30 teams has a shot at winning the Emirates Cup and some cool cash prizes. When this tournament format was unveiled, fans had mixed feelings.
Yet, no one can deny the energy it brings. Just ask the Los Angeles Lakers, who clinched the first cup last year.
When Does the NBA In-Season Tournament Start?
The NBA Cup fires up on Tuesday, November 12. This is when the in-season tournament begins, bringing a fresh wave of excitement to the league.
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All games on Tuesdays and Fridays until December 3 will be known as “Cup Nights,” featuring intense group play battles.
Teams will push for victory, aiming for the quarterfinals on December 10 and 11, followed by the semifinals on December 14.
Photo courtesy of AS USA Diario
Everything builds up to the thrilling championship game on December 17, where the NBA Cup winner takes the spotlight.
How Does the NBA In-Season Tournament Work?
The NBA Cup follows a format similar to the World Cup, featuring group play and knockout rounds. All 30 teams join in, split into six groups with five teams each, based on their conference.
Photo courtesy of Clutch Points
Each team plays four group games—two at home and two away—facing every group opponent once.
Winners advance, but the head-to-head record is the first tiebreaker in case of ties. Point differences and total points scored could decide the top team if still tied.
Each group winner moves on, along with a wild-card team from each conference boasting the best record among runners-up.
Photo courtesy of Clutch Points
After group play, eight teams enter the knockout round, battling through to the semifinals and finals for the title.
While the eight quarter finalists focus on the Cup, the rest aren’t left idle. Those not reaching the knockout stage have two extra games scheduled on off nights, keeping the season exciting for fans and players alike.
What Are the Groups for the NBA In-Season Tournament?
NBA.com
In the NBA Cup, the teams are divided into six groups based on last season’s performance. The top teams from each conference were placed into different groups to keep things competitive and exciting. Let’s break it down:
Western Conference
● West Group A: Competing here are the Wolves, Clippers, Kings, Rockets, and Blazers. They’ve got a mix of rising stars and seasoned players ready to battle it out.
● West Group B: This group includes the Thunder, Lakers, Suns, Jazz, and Spurs. Expect some thrilling matchups as these teams compete for a top spot.
● West Group C: The defending champions are in this group alongside the Pelicans, Mavericks, Warriors, and Grizzlies. Expect some intense competitions!
Eastern Conference
● East Group A: The Knicks, 76ers, Nets, Magic, and Hornets will go head-to-head. Each game promises to be a nail-biter with these teams competing.
● East Group B: Joining this group are the Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, Indiana Pacers, Detroit Pistons, and Milwaukee Bucks. It’s a strong lineup with much to prove.
● East Group C: Finally, East Group C features the Cavaliers, Celtics, Hawks, Bulls, and Wizards. Fans can expect every game to be an edge-of-the-seat event as these teams compete for glory.
Does the NBA In-Season Tournament Matter?
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The NBA In-Season Tournament adds an extra twist to the regular season. While the games count towards each team’s 82-game record, they offer more than just standings. Teams that make it far get a slice of an $18 million prize pool.
Winners of the NBA Cup pocket $500,000 each, while the runners-up receive $200,000. Even those who reach the semifinals and quarterfinals earn cash rewards.
Beyond money, there’s pride—winning teams take home a trophy, celebratory gear, and bragging rights. The tournament MVP and All-Tournament Team bring individual glory.
So, while it doesn’t affect the postseason, the tournament fills the season with thrills and stakes that go beyond regular games.
The Takeaway
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