The NBA Cup Quarterfinals feature an exciting matchup between two of the league’s hottest teams, the Dallas Mavericks and the Oklahoma City Thunder, set to take place on Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. CT on KFAA. Both teams are eager to showcase their talent, with the Mavericks (16-8) currently riding a remarkable nine-game winning streak. They are set to challenge the Thunder (18-5), the top team in the Western Conference and last season’s conference champions.
This match marks the first appearance in the NBA Cup, formerly known as the In-Season Tournament, for both teams. The stakes are high, as players can earn a significant cash prize simply for participating in the quarterfinals. Here’s how the financial rewards break down: The champions will take home $514,970, while runners-up, semifinalists, and quarterfinalist losers will receive $205,988, $102,994, and $51,497, respectively.
In terms of player health, both teams face challenges with injuries. The Mavericks will be without Maxi Kleber and Dante Exum, and have a few players listed as questionable due to illness. Meanwhile, the Thunder will miss several players including Chet Holmgren and Nikola Topic due to injuries of their own.
The outcome of this matchup will set the stage for the Mavericks’ path in the tournament. A victory will not only secure them a spot in the semifinals against the winner of the Rockets and Warriors game but could also pave their way toward the NBA Cup Finals next week. Should they lose, they will play the loser of that matchup.
Following the NBA Cup, the Mavericks will return to regular season action with a game against the Clippers set for December 19 at 7:30 p.m. on WFAA.
This matchup is not just a battle for a trophy but a chance for both teams to solidify their strong starts to the season. Fans can expect an exhilarating game as both the Mavericks and Thunder aim to prove their dominance in the league.