Celtics Guide to the 2025 NBA Cup
The 2025 NBA Cup begins Friday night, marking the league's third in-season tournament since its launch in 2023. The Boston Celtics, who entered the 2024 NBA Cup as reigning NBA champions but failed to advance past the group stage, aim to change their fortunes this year.
Group B Overview
The Celtics compete in Group B alongside the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Brooklyn Nets. They started the group stage with a narrow 109-108 victory over the 76ers.
NBA Cup Format
- All 30 NBA teams participate, divided into six groups of five within their conferences.
- Each team plays four group stage games, facing each group opponent once (two at home, two away).
- Eight teams advance to the knockout rounds: the top team from each group plus a wild card from each conference, awarded to the second-place team with the best record.
Group B Standings and Celtics’ Outlook
The Celtics’ success in reaching the knockout stage depends on their performance in these four games. The team must secure a top spot in Group B or claim the wild card spot by maintaining the best record among second-place finishers.
"The Celtics began the group stage Friday night with a 109-108 win over the Sixers."
Follow NBC Sports Boston’s podcast network for expert insights on Boston’s progress and other NBA Cup updates.
Author’s summary: The Celtics open their 2025 NBA Cup campaign with a close win, aiming to overcome past group-stage struggles and advance among strong Group B competition.