NBA Cup 2025 Quarterfinals: What You Need to Know

As the NBA Cup 2025 reaches its quarterfinal stage, the intensity of competition has escalated significantly. With only eight teams remaining, the stakes are higher than ever, not just for the championship but also for substantial monetary rewards. Players are eyeing the possibility of earning significant bonuses, a point emphasized by Lakers’ Jake LaRavia, who remarked, “I think half a million dollars is still a good amount of money to be able to motivate you to want to win games.” Here’s what you should know about the quarterfinal matchups, team dynamics, and how to catch all the action.

The Format of the NBA Cup 2025

The format for the NBA Cup has largely remained consistent since its inception. The 30 teams are divided into six groups of five, with three groups from the Eastern Conference and three from the Western Conference. Each team plays four games against other teams in their group, and these games count both for the regular season and the NBA Cup. The winners from each group, along with a wild card from each conference, progress to the quarterfinals. Currently, we are in the single-elimination knockout round, setting the stage for exciting matchups.

Eastern Conference Matchups

The Eastern Conference showcases intriguing quarterfinal matchups. The Miami Heat will take on the Orlando Magic on December 9th. The Magic, riding a recent hot streak, clinched their spot in the quarterfinals with a strong overall performance. However, their best player, Franz Wagner, is sidelined due to injury. Meanwhile, the Miami Heat, boasting a revamped offense under coach Erik Spoelstra, enter the game with a healthy squad but facing a tough challenge, having lost their last three games.

Another critical matchup in the East features the New York Knicks against the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors love to run, capitalizing on transition opportunities, whereas the Knicks thrive in their half-court offense, led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. With the Knicks on a hot streak, having won seven out of eight games, this contest promises to be fast-paced and exciting.

Western Conference Competitions

Over in the Western Conference, the spotlight is on the Oklahoma City Thunder and Phoenix Suns as they face off on December 10th. The Thunder has established themselves as a legitimate powerhouse this season, bolstered by standout performances from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Their league-best defense has been a crucial factor in their dominance. Conversely, the Suns are looking to capitalize on their recent successes, especially with new coach Jordan Ott invigorating their competitive spirit and defense.

Another key game in the West features the San Antonio Spurs against the Los Angeles Lakers. The participation of Spurs’ rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama is in question, which could heavily influence the game’s outcome. On the Lakers’ side, Luka Doncic’s emergence as an MVP candidate and the clutch performance of the team this season signify they will be tough competitors on the court.

NBA Cup Quarterfinal Schedule

Mark your calendars for the following dates as the NBA Cup quarterfinals unfold:

• Quarterfinals: December 9 and 10
• Semifinals: December 13 in Las Vegas
• Championship: December 16 in Las Vegas

The finals promise to be a grand event, coinciding with the holiday season, providing a thrilling conclusion to this year’s Cup.

Prize Money and Motivation

One of the most intriguing aspects of the NBA Cup is the financial incentive for players. Each roster player in the quarterfinals automatically receives a bonus, with the winning team earning over half a million dollars per player. The breakdown of payouts is noteworthy:

• Championship winners: $530,933 each
• Runners-up: $212,373 each
• Semifinalists: $106,187 each
• Quarterfinalists: $53,093 each

This structure further motivates players to push themselves beyond their limits as they pursue the coveted championship and the associated financial rewards.

How to Watch

The excitement of the NBA Cup can be experienced live through various platforms. Peacock NBA Monday will stream select games each week, and doubleheaders on Tuesdays will offer fans ample opportunities to watch their favorite teams. Local listings will provide more specific details about airing schedules in specific regions.

As we approach the NBA Cup quarterfinals, fans can look forward to thrilling matchups filled with high stakes, fierce competition, and the prospect of significant financial rewards for the teams involved. This season promises to deliver unforgettable moments as we head into the championship games.