The Boston Celtics, fresh off their NBA Championship victory last season, are aiming for continued success as the 2024 NBA Cup, also known as the NBA In-Season Tournament, kicks off. Starting with a home game against the Atlanta Hawks at TD Garden, the Celtics are determined to excel this time around and overcome last year’s early exit.
The tournament features unique elements, including specially designed courts and City Edition uniforms that have received mixed reactions from fans. Boston’s temporary court has a vibrant green look, which replaces the traditional parquet flooring, while the uniforms this year have sparked comparisons to less fashionable attire. Despite the aesthetic concerns, the Celtics remain focused on their goals.
In the Group Stage of the NBA Cup, which runs from November 12 through December 3, the Celtics are placed in Group C of the Eastern Conference alongside the Hawks, Bulls, and Wizards, but they’ll also face a strong 12-0 Cleveland Cavaliers team. Matches are set for Tuesdays and Fridays, and the Celtics are eager to make it past the group stage after a disappointing quarterfinal exit last year.
Notably, while Jayson Tatum’s participation in the opening game is uncertain due to an ankle injury, the Hawks will also be missing their star player, Trae Young, who is sidelined with Achilles tendinitis.
Beyond pride, players have financial incentives to compete fiercely, as those on the championship-winning team can earn $500,000 each. This monetary reward, while may seem minor compared to their salaries, holds significance for many players, especially those on the roster’s fringes.
As the Celtics embark on this tournament journey, they carry the hopes of their fans and the determination to not only win the NBA Cup but to build on their championship legacy. The tournament serves as an exciting opportunity to boost engagement in the regular season and to foster camaraderie among players as they chase yet another title.
In summary, the Celtics are poised for an exciting yet challenging NBA Cup run, embracing both the stakes and the unique atmosphere that this tournament brings.