players_bio
The 2026 Emirates NBA Cup is set to tip off with group stage matches scheduled on Fridays from October 30 through November 27, along with additional Cup nights during Thanksgiving week on November 24 and 25. The league has released the complete schedule for the in-season tournament, now in its fourth year.
The New York Knicks, who made history by becoming the first team to win both the NBA Cup and the NBA Finals in the same season, will look to continue their championship momentum. Led by Jalen Brunson, the Knicks face stiff competition, particularly in the star-studded East Group B.
Key Matchups and Schedule Highlights
The action begins on October 30 with a slate of games, including the Charlotte Hornets visiting the Washington Wizards at 7 p.m. ET, the Chicago Bulls taking on the Boston Celtics at 7:30 p.m. ET, and the Detroit Pistons facing the Brooklyn Nets at 7:30 p.m. ET. Other opening night matchups feature the New York Knicks at Philadelphia 76ers, the Orlando Magic at Toronto Raptors (Prime), the Indiana Pacers at Miami Heat, the Houston Rockets at Dallas Mavericks, the LA Clippers at Minnesota Timberwolves, the Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors (Prime), and the Denver Nuggets at Phoenix Suns (Prime).
The second week of Cup play on November 6 includes the Washington Wizards at Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics at Charlotte Hornets, Philadelphia 76ers at Cleveland Cavaliers (Prime), Utah Jazz at Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder at Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors at Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves at New Orleans Pelicans, Portland Trail Blazers at Los Angeles Lakers (Prime), and San Antonio Spurs at Sacramento Kings (Prime).
On November 13, the New York Knicks visit the Indiana Pacers at 7 p.m. ET on Prime, highlighting a rematch of last season's playoff series. The group stage continues through November 27, with the exact schedule for November 20 and 24-25 to be announced.
Groups and Format
The 2026 NBA Cup features 30 teams divided into six groups of five, with three groups per conference. Each team plays four group stage games (two home, two away) on designated Cup nights. The top team from each group advances to the knockout round, along with two wild-card teams (the best second-place finishers from each conference). The knockout round consists of quarterfinals, semifinals, and the championship game, all held at neutral sites. The semifinals and championship will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on December 12 and 14, respectively.
FAQ
What is the NBA Cup? The NBA Cup is an in-season tournament that began in 2023. It features all 30 teams competing in a group stage and knockout round, with the champion earning the NBA Cup trophy.
When does the 2026 NBA Cup take place? Group stage games are scheduled on Fridays from October 30 to November 27, plus special Cup nights on November 24-25. The knockout rounds begin in December.
How can fans watch? Games will be broadcast on various networks, including ESPN, TNT, and NBA TV, with some games streaming on Prime Video.
What is the prize? Players on the winning team receive $500,000 each, while runners-up receive $200,000. All players on teams that reach the semifinals and quarterfinals also receive cash prizes.
Originally reported by players_bio.