The third edition of the Emirates NBA Cup is heating up as group play enters its final stage and the knockout-round picture begins to form. Fans are watching closely to see which teams will secure their ticket to Las Vegas and battle for this year’s NBA Cup trophy.
The tournament has quickly become a major midseason event. LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers claimed the first title in 2023, with James earning MVP honors. In 2024, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks lifted the NBA Cup before the Oklahoma City Thunder went on to become NBA champions.
Now the question returns: Who will rise in 2025 and turn their Cup momentum into postseason success?
This guide covers everything you need to know — major takeaways, updated standings, full schedule, rules, format, and what to expect next.
Latest Takeaways: Nov. 26
Eastern Conference
Heat, Bucks, Knicks Battle for Group C
The biggest game of the night came from Miami, where the Heat extended their winning streak to six games. Tyler Herro delivered 29 points in just his second game back from ankle surgery, while Bam Adebayo and Kel’el Ware combined for strong inside play. Their win over Milwaukee puts the Heat at 3-1, keeping them alive for the Group C crown.
Meanwhile, the Knicks dominated Charlotte to stay in the race. Group C is now guaranteed to finish with two 3-1 teams, which means Washington, Atlanta, Boston, Brooklyn, and Chicago have all been eliminated.
Detroit vs. Orlando Will Decide Group B
Despite Boston ending Detroit’s 13-game win streak, the Pistons still control their path. The winner of the Pistons–Magic matchup advances to the quarterfinals.
Raptors Clinch Group A
Brandon Ingram buried a clutch shot with 0.6 seconds left to give Toronto a 97-95 win over Indiana. Toronto finishes group play undefeated and secures home-court advantage in the quarterfinals.
Western Conference
Thunder Continue Historic Start
The Thunder defeated Minnesota to move to 18-1 on the season, one of the best starts in NBA history. Their 3-0 Cup record puts them in control of Group A.
Suns Stay Hot in Group A
Phoenix improved to 3-0 but nearly blew a huge lead in Sacramento. Point differential could become important for tiebreakers.
Spurs Spoil Portland’s Run
De’Aaron Fox erupted for a season-high 37 points to lift San Antonio over Portland, creating a win-and-in scenario for the Spurs in their final game.
Grizzlies Still Fighting for Wild Card
Memphis cannot win Group B but kept their wild-card hopes alive with an overtime win led by Zach Edey.
Scores: Nov. 26
- Celtics 117, Pistons 114
- Knicks 129, Hornets 101
- Raptors 97, Pacers 95
- Thunder 113, Timberwolves 105
- Heat 106, Bucks 103
- Grizzlies 133, Pelicans 128
- Rockets 104, Warriors 100
- Spurs 115, Trail Blazers 102
- Suns 112, Kings 100
What to Watch on Friday
Eastern Conference
Group B: Pistons vs. Magic — Winner Advances
This is a straight elimination game. Orlando could still grab the wild card if they lose narrowly due to a strong point differential.
Group C: Three Teams, One Spot
- If Milwaukee beats New York → Heat win the group
- If Knicks win → Knicks advance
- Heat may advance via wild card depending on point differential
Wild Card Race
The Cavaliers also remain in the wild-card race and need a strong win over Atlanta.
Western Conference
Group A Showdown: Suns vs. Thunder
Both teams are undefeated. The winner takes the group, but both are strong contenders for the knockout stage.
Wild Card Battle
The Clippers and Grizzlies need big wins to enter the conversation.
Group C Finale: Spurs vs. Nuggets
Winner takes Group C. Loser is eliminated. San Antonio plays without Victor Wembanyama due to injury.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Emirates NBA Cup
What is the NBA Cup format?
The 30 NBA teams are divided into six groups of five — three groups in each conference. Each team plays four group games. Group winners and one wild-card team per conference advance to the quarterfinals.
Do these games count toward the regular season?
Yes. All group and quarterfinal games count toward the 82-game schedule. The semifinal and final do not count toward regular-season standings.
Where is the final played?
This season’s semifinals and final are in Las Vegas. Starting next year, semifinals move to home markets.
What’s new in 2025?
- More games featured on Amazon Prime
- Friday-focused schedule
- Adjusted calendar to reduce back-to-back games
Why do NBA Cup games count toward standings?
To ensure teams stay motivated and don’t rest stars unnecessarily. It guarantees meaningful competition.
How were the groups formed?
Teams were sorted into pots based on last season’s standings, then drawn into groups.
Which group is the hardest?
Many analysts agree West Group C is the toughest, featuring Houston, Denver, Golden State, Portland, and San Antonio.
Do players get prize money?
Yes. Prize money increases each year:
- Winners: More than $500,000 per player
- Runner-up: More than $200,000
- Semifinalists: Over $100,000
- Quarterfinalists: Over $50,000
Is there an MVP?
Yes. The tournament includes an MVP and an All-Tournament Team.
Why is it called the Emirates NBA Cup?
The NBA signed a sponsorship deal with Emirates. The simple “NBA Cup” name was meant to keep branding flexible for future sponsorships.
Full 2025 NBA Cup Schedule
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Group Play: Oct. 31 – Nov. 28
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Knockout Stage
Quarterfinals: Dec. 9–10
Semifinals: Dec. 13
Championship: Dec. 16