The NBA Cup’s group stage delivered thrilling games, unexpected outcomes, and an early exit for the defending champions Boston Celtics. While the New York Knicks and Milwaukee Bucks secured unbeaten records to dominate their groups, the Celtics’ hopes were dashed on point differential. This tournament quickly becomes a highlight of the NBA season, offering a fresh dynamic to early-season basketball.
Knicks Dominate as Towns and Hart Shine
The New York Knicks secured their spot in the quarterfinals with a decisive 121-106 victory over the Orlando Magic. Karl-Anthony Towns led the charge with an impressive 23 points and 15 rebounds, while Josh Hart added a triple-double performance with 11, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Their perfect 4-0 record guarantees home-court advantage in the next round, where they will face the Atlanta Hawks. “We’ve been playing great team basketball, and we’re ready to keep it going,” Towns said post-game. Despite losing, Orlando advanced as the Eastern Conference wildcard, edging out the Celtics.
Bucks’ Unstoppable Momentum
The Milwaukee Bucks closed the group stage with a 128-107 win over the Detroit Pistons, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 28 points and Damian Lillard’s 27-point contribution. With their 4-0 record, the Bucks have won nine of their last 10 games.
“They put a tournament in front of us, and we want to win it,” said Bucks head coach Doc Rivers. “We’re 4-0, but we still have a lot of work to do.” They’ll face the Orlando Magic in the quarterfinals with eyes set on the title.
Western Conference Battles Heat Up
Out West, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks secured their spots in the quarterfinals with dominant performances. The Thunder cruised past the Utah Jazz 133-106, led by Jalen Williams’ 28 points. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic outperformed Ja Morant as the Mavericks defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 121-116, earning the Western Conference wildcard spot.
The Thunder will host the Mavericks, while the Golden State Warriors will travel to face the Houston Rockets. With the defending NBA Cup champions, the Los Angeles Lakers, already eliminated, the stage is set for a new champion.
The NBA Cup: A New Era for Basketball Fans
Introduced to inject excitement into the regular season, the NBA Cup has sparked mixed reactions. While many fans appreciate the high-stakes games in November and December, some players remain skeptical. Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said, “I just win, and then we see where we end up.”
Beginning December 10, the knockout rounds will determine which teams travel to Las Vegas for the semifinals and finals. Single-elimination games promise intense matchups, culminating in a December 17 championship in Sin City.
A Thrilling Tournament So Far
With high-profile matchups and unexpected drama, the NBA Cup has already delivered. The Celtics’ elimination and the Knicks and Bucks’ unbeaten runs showcase the tournament’s unpredictability. As the quarterfinals approach, fans eagerly await what’s next in this exciting chapter of the NBA season.
