The Emirates NBA Cup returns for its third edition, starting on October 31 and concluding with the championship game in December. The tournament features all 30 NBA teams divided into six groups of five based on the 2024-25 regular-season win-loss records, split by conference.
Each team plays four group-stage games. The top team from each group, along with two wild-card teams, advance to the knockout rounds. All NBA Cup games count toward regular-season standings except for the championship game. Prize money is awarded to players on teams reaching the knockout stage, increasing as teams advance further.
The Emirates NBA Cup is structured so that all matches except the final contribute to regular-season records.
Author’s summary: The NBA Cup’s third season combines group-stage intensity and knockout excitement, with every match shaping the 2024-25 regular season and prize money rewarding teams' progress.