The 2025 Emirates NBA Cup has returned to feature all 30 NBA franchises who are looking to take down last year’s winners, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks.
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This year, the league has revealed the six groups that have broken the league down into sections, and they vary slightly from how the NBA’s traditional divisions look on a yearly basis. Each conference still has three groups, similar to the conference setup during normal NBA play, but teams have been mixed up further to ensure that there are matchups that basketball fans don’t see as often.
Last year, the Bucks went on to win the 2024 edition of the NBA Cup after winning the East Group B section with a perfect 4-0 record before going on to take down the Orlando Magic, Atlanta Hawks and Oklahoma City Thunder in the competition’s playoffs.
NBA Cup prize money
One of the biggest reasons for the NBA’s push for the NBA Cup to be played in-season is that stars could be motivated more by the extra prize money Adam Silver and Co. are allocating towards the tournament.
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Dec 17, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace (22) during the 3rd quarter of the Emirates NBA Cup championship game at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Image
Players on teams reaching quarterfinals: $51,497 each
Players on teams reaching semifinals: $102,994 each
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Players on runners’ up team: $205,988 each
Players on winning team: $514,971 each
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