The NBA Cup returns for its second season, kicking off Tuesday night and running until December 17. Originally known as the In-Season Tournament, this addition to the regular season has been a long-sought initiative by Commissioner Adam Silver, aimed at enhancing the competitive atmosphere of the league.
All 30 NBA teams will compete in four group-stage matches, with the top eight squads advancing to the quarterfinals. The victorious teams from the quarterfinals will then journey to Las Vegas for the semifinals on December 14. Importantly, aside from the championship match, all tournament games count toward the regular-season standings. Thus, while this tournament adds an additional layer of competition, it remains integral to the teams’ overall performance in the league.
The stakes are significant, with players vying for pride, a trophy, and financial rewards. Each member of the winning team stands to earn $514,971, while the runner-up players will receive $205,988. Players whose teams reach the semifinals will earn $102,994, and those eliminated in the quarterfinals will take home $51,497 each.
The competition is divided into three groups for both the Eastern and Western Conferences. Noteworthy matches include New York visiting Philadelphia on Tuesday, and Miami squaring off against Detroit. Other teams will follow suit with matches scheduled throughout the month.
It’s important to note that elimination from the group stage will lead to additional games being scheduled. Every team currently has 80 games arranged for the season but will ultimately play 82, with the championship game not counting towards the regular season.
The Boston Celtics are seen as the favorites to win the NBA Cup, followed closely by the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers, as the defending tournament champions, are also keen contenders.
Fans can follow the action with games broadcast nationally on TNT and ESPN on designated dates, alongside local broadcasts.
In summary, the NBA Cup represents an exciting opportunity for teams to gain recognition and rewards beyond the traditional season. This innovative tournament not only enhances competitive dynamics within the league but offers fans an engaging experience as they cheer on their favorite teams throughout the season. With financial incentives and a trophy on the line, players are expected to bring their best to the court, making for thrilling matchups ahead.