The 2024 NBA Cup Final is set to feature two of the league’s brightest stars: Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Both players have been instrumental in their teams’ success throughout the tournament, and now, they will face off in Las Vegas for the title.
What is the NBA Cup and its Format?
The NBA Cup was designed to enhance the significance of the early NBA season. It is a shorter tournament compared to the regular 82-game season, offering teams a chance to win an additional title. According to Evan Wasch, the NBA’s executive vice president of basketball strategy and analytics, the NBA Cup draws inspiration from global sports, where multiple competitions keep fans engaged throughout the season.
The 30 NBA teams are split into six regional groups of five. After playing round-robin matches within their groups, the top team from each group advances to the quarter-finals, along with the best second-place teams from the Eastern and Western Conferences. The tournament continues in regional semi-finals, culminating in the final.
“This is basically a World Cup format, with five teams in each group,” Wasch explained. The results of NBA Cup games count toward the regular season standings, except for the final.
NBA Cup Results Impact Regular Season
The Bucks, with a regular season record of 14 wins and 11 losses, have remained perfect in NBA Cup play, boasting a 6-0 record. Their cup success has significantly boosted their overall season standing. In contrast, the Thunder have led the Western Conference with a 20-5 record, and their NBA Cup performance stands at 5-1.
When Is the 2024 NBA Cup Final?
The final is set for 01:30 GMT on Wednesday, following the semi-finals held on Sunday. The Bucks secured their spot by defeating the Atlanta Hawks 110-102, while the Thunder triumphed over the Houston Rockets 111-96. Both semi-finals and the final will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Key Players to Watch
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time MVP, has been outstanding this season, averaging 32.7 points per game, and is a key player for the Bucks. For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) has been a standout, ranking fourth in the league in points per game.
Will There Be an MVP?
The NBA Cup MVP will be awarded after the final, along with the five-man Team of the Tournament. Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was part of last year’s team, could become the first player to be named to two such teams.
External Link: BBC Sport – NBA Cup
Internal Link: Eurasia Sports
