The 2025 NBA Cup is heating up as group play reaches its midway point. The league’s in-season tournament, now in its third edition, has quickly evolved from an experimental concept into a highly anticipated competition. Following the triumphs of LeBron James and the Lakers in 2023 and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Bucks in 2024, fans are eager to see which team will lift the trophy in Las Vegas this year.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the NBA Cup 2025 — from its structure and prize money to current results, group standings, and top performances.
What Is the NBA Cup?
The NBA Cup is the league’s in-season tournament, inspired by European soccer competitions. Instead of waiting until April for playoff intensity, the NBA injects extra stakes into early-season games by awarding a separate title during the regular season.
How the Tournament Began
Commissioner Adam Silver long envisioned an event that would bring March-Madness-style energy to November basketball. The inaugural 2023 NBA In-Season Tournament achieved that goal, delivering higher TV ratings and packed arenas. The competition was officially rebranded in 2024 as the Emirates NBA Cup following a sponsorship deal with the Dubai-based airline.
Why the NBA Cup Matters
Beyond financial rewards, the Cup boosts team chemistry, builds rivalries, and gives emerging stars national exposure. Every Cup game also counts toward the regular-season standings, which adds playoff implications to otherwise routine early-season matchups.
2025 NBA Cup Format Explained
Group Stage Structure
Each of the 30 NBA teams is divided into six groups of five — three in the Eastern Conference and three in the Western Conference. Teams play four group games (two home, two away). Group winners and the best second-place team from each conference advance to the knockout rounds.
This year’s group games primarily occur on Fridays throughout November, simplifying scheduling for fans and broadcasters.
Knockout Round and Championship Details
The quarterfinals take place on December 9–10, followed by the semifinals on December 13 and the championship game on December 16, all broadcast on Amazon Prime. The semifinal and final rounds will again be hosted in Las Vegas, adding a neutral-site, high-stakes atmosphere.
How It Impacts the Regular Season
Each team’s first 80 games are pre-scheduled. After group play ends, the NBA finalizes the last two games (or one for quarterfinal losers) based on Cup outcomes. Teams that reach Las Vegas technically play 83 total games, though the championship game does not count toward the official 82-game record.
2025 NBA Cup Groups and Teams
Eastern Conference Groups
East Group A:
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Indiana Pacers
- Atlanta Hawks
- Toronto Raptors
- Washington Wizards
East Group B:
- Boston Celtics
- Detroit Pistons
- Orlando Magic
- Brooklyn Nets
- Philadelphia 76ers
East Group C:
- New York Knicks
- Milwaukee Bucks
- Chicago Bulls
- Miami Heat
- Charlotte Hornets
Western Conference Groups
West Group A:
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- Sacramento Kings
- Phoenix Suns
- Utah Jazz
West Group B:
- Los Angeles Lakers
- LA Clippers
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Dallas Mavericks
- New Orleans Pelicans
West Group C:
- Houston Rockets
- Denver Nuggets
- Golden State Warriors
- Portland Trail Blazers
- San Antonio Spurs
Strongest Group of 2025
Most analysts agree that West Group C is this year’s “Group of Death.” With defending champion Denver Nuggets, perennial contenders Golden State Warriors, and an improving Houston Rockets roster, every matchup feels like a playoff game. The presence of Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs adds even more intrigue.
Key Games and Storylines So Far
Curry’s Heroics Highlight Early Action
The most thrilling Cup game to date came on November 14, when Stephen Curry scored 49 points to lead the Warriors past the Spurs 109–108. With 6.4 seconds remaining, Curry calmly sank two free throws to secure the victory — his second consecutive 40-point outing and a reminder of his ageless brilliance.
Wembanyama countered with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks, but Golden State’s experience prevailed. That win left all five teams in West Group C at 1-1, setting up a chaotic race for the semifinals.
Teams Winning Without Their Stars
Injuries haven’t stopped contenders from dominating. The Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic remain unbeaten atop East Group B despite missing key players Cade Cunningham and Paolo Banchero. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks defeated the Miami Heat 140–132 even without OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson.
Western Parity and Tight Races
Both Los Angeles teams (Lakers and Clippers) are 2-0 in West Group B. The Lakers comfortably beat the Pelicans 118–104, while the Clippers outlasted Dallas 133–127 in double overtime. The Timberwolves also improved to 2-0 after a fourth-quarter surge over Sacramento.
In short: no group is decided yet. The standings remain tight, with momentum, point differential, and tiebreakers all critical.
2025 NBA Cup Results and Scores (Through Nov. 14)
Nov. 14 Results:
- Magic 105, Nets 98
- Knicks 140, Heat 132
- Pistons 114, 76ers 105
- Rockets 140, Trail Blazers 116
- Lakers 118, Pelicans 104
- Timberwolves 124, Kings 110
- Bucks 147, Hornets 134 (OT)
- Clippers 133, Mavericks 127 (2OT)
- Warriors 109, Spurs 108
Earlier Results (Oct. 31 & Nov. 7):
- Hawks 128, Pacers 108
- Celtics 109, 76ers 108
- Raptors 112, Cavaliers 101
- Lakers 117, Grizzlies 112
- Suns 118, Jazz 96
- Nuggets 129, Warriors 104
- Cavaliers 148, Wizards 114
- Magic 123, Celtics 110
- Thunder 132, Kings 101
Group play continues through November 28, leading into knockout rounds on December 9–10.
Prize Money and Player Incentives
How Much Do Players Earn?
The NBA Cup prize pool continues to grow with each season. In 2023, winning players earned $500,000 each, with $200,000 for runners-up and smaller shares for semifinal and quarterfinal participants. In 2025, those numbers have reportedly increased in line with the league’s revenue growth.
| Stage | Player Earnings (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Champion | $550,000 per player |
| Runner-Up | $225,000 per player |
| Semifinalist | $120,000 per player |
| Quarterfinalist | $60,000 per player |
These amounts may not rival superstar contracts, but for younger players and two-way contracts, they represent a significant payday — and a chance to shine on national TV.
Tournament MVP and All-Cup Honors
Just like in previous editions, the NBA Cup MVP and All-Tournament Team will be announced after the final. LeBron James (2023) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (2024) were the first two MVPs. This year’s early favorites include Stephen Curry, Anthony Edwards, and Jayson Tatum.
How the NBA Cup Affects the Regular Season
Cup games are double-counted as regular-season contests. That means every win contributes both to group standings and the team’s playoff seeding. The only exception is the final game in Las Vegas, which serves purely as a championship showdown.
This structure ensures teams take the tournament seriously — resting players now risks not only Cup elimination but also dropping valuable conference games.
The Future of the NBA Cup
Potential Format Changes
The NBA plans to expand home-site semifinals starting in 2026, reducing travel and improving fan turnout. Officials have also discussed adding a guaranteed playoff berth for the champion — though that idea remains under review.
Growing Impact on Fan Engagement
Data from last season shows that Cup nights generate up to 25% higher TV viewership than standard regular-season games. Fans appreciate the mix of stakes and spectacle, while players welcome the competitive energy before the All-Star break.
The Cup’s success could pave the way for similar innovations, such as a midseason 3-on-3 weekend or G-League integrated competitions.
2025 NBA Cup Schedule (Remaining Dates)
Nov. 21: Group Play Continues
- Indiana Pacers at Cleveland Cavaliers (Prime Video)
- Brooklyn Nets at Boston Celtics
- Miami Heat at Chicago Bulls
- Pelicans at Mavericks
- Timberwolves at Suns
- Nuggets at Rockets (Prime Video)
- Trail Blazers at Warriors
- Thunder at Jazz
Nov. 25–28: Final Group Games
- Clippers vs. Lakers (Nov. 25, Peacock)
- Pistons at Celtics (Nov. 26, ESPN)
- Suns at Kings (Nov. 26)
- Bucks at Knicks (Nov. 28, Prime Video)
- Mavericks at Lakers (Nov. 28, Prime Video)
Dec. 9–10: Quarterfinals
Dec. 13: Semifinals (Las Vegas)
Dec. 16: Championship Game (Las Vegas, Prime Video)
What Makes the NBA Cup Unique
The NBA Cup adds a layer of urgency and drama to the early months of the season. It’s a test of depth, adaptability, and composure — especially for teams balancing rest management with competitive drive. Younger squads like Orlando, Oklahoma City, and Minnesota have treated it as a proving ground, while veterans like LeBron James and Stephen Curry use it to set the tone for postseason aspirations.
The tournament’s growing popularity suggests it’s here to stay — and might one day become as celebrated as the Larry O’Brien Trophy chase itself.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NBA Cup continues to grow as a showcase for rising stars and clutch veterans alike. Whether it’s Stephen Curry’s late-game brilliance, LeBron’s leadership, or young teams breaking through, the tournament delivers playoff-level excitement months before the postseason begins.
As December approaches and the lights of Las Vegas beckon, one question remains: Who will raise the next NBA Cup banner?
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FAQ: Common Questions About the NBA Cup
What Is the NBA Cup?
The NBA Cup is an in-season tournament integrated into the regular schedule. It features group play, knockout rounds, and a neutral-site final, with games counting toward regular-season standings.
How Do Teams Qualify for the Knockout Stage?
Each group winner and the best second-place team per conference advance to the quarterfinals. Single-elimination play determines the eventual champion.
Do Players Get Paid for the NBA Cup?
Yes. Prize money ranges from $60,000 for quarterfinalists to over $500,000 for each player on the championship team.
Does the NBA Cup Affect the Playoffs?
Indirectly. Since Cup games count toward regular-season standings, every win or loss can influence playoff seeding — though the Cup title itself doesn’t guarantee a playoff berth.
Where Is the NBA Cup Final Played?
The semifinals and championship game are hosted in Las Vegas, a tradition since the tournament’s inception in 2023.