NBA In-Season Tournament: Everything You Need to Know
The Emirates NBA Cup, introduced in 2023, serves as the NBA's In-Season Tournament designed to boost fan engagement and promote competitive play before the All-Star Break.
Purpose and Timing
This tournament occurs early in the season when NBA games compete with NFL and NHL for viewers. Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the innovation behind the tournament during its launch on July 8, 2023:
“New traditions take time. But, all throughout sports, we are seeing new innovations, and now is the time for this NBA In-Season Tournament.”
Tournament Format
The Emirates NBA Cup consists of two main stages before the Championship game:
- Group Play Round: A monthlong phase where teams play four group opponents once each—two games at home and two on the road.
- Knockout Round: A single-elimination phase including Quarterfinals and Semifinals.
Schedule
- Start Date: Friday, October 31, 2025
- "Cup Nights": Primarily on Fridays in October and November, ending with group play on Friday, November 28.
- Quarterfinals: Tuesday, December 9 and Wednesday, December 10
- Semifinals: Saturday, December 13 (single day)
- Championship Game: Tuesday, December 16
All Group Play games align with the regular season schedule, ensuring consistency for teams and fans.
“Each team will face their four group opponents once, with two home games and two on the road.”
Author's summary: The Emirates NBA Cup introduces a competitive mid-season tournament with group and knockout stages, aiming to create new NBA traditions and enhance fan excitement.