The Emirates NBA Cup 2026: More Than Just a Trophy
Thirty teams enter, but only one will hoist the coveted Emirates NBA Cup. This fourth annual in-season tournament adds a fierce, competitive edge to the early regular season, injecting playoff-like energy into every game.
Each team will battle its four group rivals once during Group Play. The six group winners and two Wild Card teams (top second-place finishers) advance to a single-elimination Knockout Round, culminating in the Championship Game on December 11.
This year, history will be made at Butler’s historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, hosting the final showdown. Known for legendary high school state titles and its starring role in Hoosiers, Hinkle is set to add an NBA Cup legacy to its storied past.
The unique, vibrant court designs for each team underscore the importance of these contests. Players like Jalen Brunson, last year’s MVP, describe the atmosphere as “electric,” while **Victor Wembanyama** sees it as the “best way to prepare ourselves for what’s next.”
Prime Time Showdowns: Tonight's Must-Watch Battles
Tonight’s **Emirates NBA Cup** launch features a blockbuster Prime Video doubleheader. Prepare for intense rivalries and superstar clashes right out of the gate.
Knicks vs. 76ers: An Eastern Conference Grudge Match
The defending Cup champion **New York Knicks** kick off their title defense against the **Philadelphia 76ers** (7:30 ET, Prime Video) in a heated East Group B showdown. Just ten days ago, **Philly** spoiled the **Knicks**’ banner-raising night, setting the stage for tonight’s highly anticipated rematch.
All eyes will be on **Tyrese Maxey**, who has emerged as the **Sixers**’ driving force, averaging a career-high **28.4 points** and showcasing incredible crunch-time command. Can **Maxey** outduel **Jalen Brunson**, who just dropped **38 points** to complete a massive **Knicks** rally?
Warriors vs. Lakers: Western Conference Superstars Collide
The nightcap sees **Steph Curry** and the **Golden State Warriors** host **Luka Dončić** and the **Los Angeles Lakers** (10 ET, Prime Video) in a West Group C battle. **Curry** has a history of Cup heroics, delivering game-winners and massive scoring performances in past tournaments.
But **Dončić** arrives in sensational form, leading the league with **36 ppg** and hitting an **NBA season-high 52 points** just days ago. The **Lakers**’ high-octane offense, bolstered by new additions and leading the league in scoring, will challenge the **Dubs** as both teams chase their third straight win.
Emerging Talents: Who Will Seize the Spotlight?
Beyond the marquee matchups, the **Emirates NBA Cup** is a proving ground for young talents and returning veterans. Every game is pivotal, with point differential potentially deciding who advances.
**AJ Dybantsa** (**Wizards**) makes his Cup debut tonight against the **Hornets** (7 ET, League Pass). The No. 1 overall pick impressed with **19 points** in his first NBA action on Wednesday and looks for his first career win.
In Boston, rookie sensation **Caleb Wilson** (**Bulls**) brings his **20+ point** average and defensive prowess against **Jayson Tatum** and the **Celtics** (7:30 ET, League Pass). Meanwhile, reigning Rookie of the Year **Cooper Flagg** (**Rockets**) aims to continue his stellar start against the **Mavericks** (8 ET, League Pass) in an all-Texas showdown. Don’t forget the returns of **Kyrie Irving** and **Fred VanVleet** to the court!
Western Conference Power Play: Group B & C Analysis
As Group Play begins, let’s examine the competitive landscapes of the Western Conference’s final two groups.
West Group B: The Contenders’ Gauntlet
This group is stacked with established powers and hungry young teams: the **Thunder**, **Wolves**, **Clippers**, **Pelicans**, and **Grizzlies**. The **OKC Thunder** swept multiple group opponents last season, but the addition of All-Star **LaMelo Ball** to the **Minnesota Timberwolves** could shake up the hierarchy.
West Group C: Legacy vs. Ambition
West Group C features a star-studded cast including the **Spurs**, **Lakers**, **Blazers**, **Warriors**, and **Kings**. The **Lakers** claimed the inaugural **NBA Cup** in 2023, while the **Spurs** were runners-up in 2025. This group promises a fierce battle between proven Cup contenders and teams looking to etch their name in the tournament’s history.
Last Night's Action: Boozer's Historic Triple-Double Highlights Thursday Hoops
Before the Cup madness begins, Thursday night delivered some thrilling regular-season action, highlighted by a historic performance.
Grizzlies 124, Trail Blazers 103: Boozer Makes History as Memphis Stays Undefeated
The **Memphis Grizzlies** kept their perfect record intact, earning their best start since 2014, as No. 3 pick **Cameron Boozer** delivered his first career **triple-double** with **18 points**, **12 rebounds**, and **12 assists**. **Boozer** is now the second-youngest player and fifth teenager in NBA history to achieve this feat. Despite **Deni Avdija**’s efforts for the **Blazers**, a dominant **56-32** bench advantage propelled **Memphis** to victory.
Hawks 114, Cavaliers 111: Atlanta Holds Off Cleveland
The **Atlanta Hawks** survived a late rally from the **Cleveland Cavaliers**, with **Donovan Mitchell** missing two chances to tie at the buzzer. Strong performances from **Onyeka Okongwu** (**29 points**, **12 rebounds**) and **Nickeil Alexander-Walker** (**25 points**), plus **James Harden**’s season-high **24 points**, secured the **Hawks**’ win.
Pelicans 132, Kings 120: New Orleans Claims First Win
Seven **Pelicans** scored in double figures, led by **Zion Williamson** (**22 points** on **10-for-12 FG**) and **Jeremiah Fears** (**22 points**, **13 assists**), as **New Orleans** snatched their first victory of the season. For the **Kings**, **Darius Acuff Jr.** had a massive night with **34 points**, **6 rebounds**, and **14 assists**, becoming only the fourth teenager in NBA history to record a 30/10 game.