Catching the Action
For all basketball enthusiasts out there, gear up for some thrilling action. The In-Season Tournament will be broadcast on ESPN or TNT in the U.S., and on NBA League Pass for international viewers. So, no matter where you are, you can keep up with the excitement.
Tournament Format
The tournament is scheduled to run from November 3 to December 7. It's worth noting that all games, except for the championship, count towards regular season standings, making every match crucial for the teams involved.
All 30 NBA teams will participate, divided into groups based on their performance in the previous season. Each team plays against the other four teams in their group once, ensuring a fair distribution of home and away games - two each.
These group stage games are set to occur on 'Tournament Nights' every Tuesday and Friday from November 3 to 28. However, the schedule has been mindfully planned to exclude US Election Day on November 7, acknowledging the importance of civic participation.
The competition heats up as the winners of the six groups and one wild card from each conference advance to the knockout rounds. The quarterfinals offer an additional advantage to the teams with the best group stage records as they are hosted at their home arenas.
The climax of the tournament, the semifinals and final, will be held at a neutral venue - the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, ensuring an unbiased setting for the deciding matches.
Prizes
Teams that manage to reach the knockout stages will share in the prize pool. The further a team progresses, the larger their share, adding another layer of incentive for the teams to perform their best. Additionally, an MVP and an All-Tournament team will also be named, recognizing individual brilliance alongside team success.
NBA's Efforts for Viewer Engagement
The NBA has been proactive in its efforts to keep viewers engaged. The 'Play-In' feature introduced during the Covid-enforced 'Bubble' in 2020 between teams finishing 7th-10th in each conference has remained a staple in every season since. This innovative approach was well-received by fans and increased viewer engagement significantly.
With the introduction of the In-Season Tournament, the NBA hopes to replicate this success. It's not just about the games; it's about providing a unique and engaging experience for the fans. So, get ready for some high-octane basketball action this November!