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Welcome to the NBA In-Season Tournament, a fresh addition to the basketball calendar from November 3rd to December 9th. Here's a breakdown for those new to the game:
I. Overview: The tournament involves all 30 NBA teams and unfolds in two stages: Group Play and the Knockout Rounds. The Semi-finals and Championship will occur on December 7th and 9th at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
A. Group Play:
Teams are divided into groups of five based on their prior-season records.
From November 3rd to November 28th, each team plays four games against other teams in their group.
Two games are at home, and two are on the road.
Group standings determine who advances.
B. Knockout Rounds:
Eight teams move on: the top team from each group and two wild card teams (best record, second in the group).
Single-elimination games commence on December 4th and 5th, leading to the Semifinals and Championship on December 7th and 9th.
Games in the Knockout Rounds count as regular-season games except for the Championship.
II. Tournament Details: A. Group Play Draw:
Teams are randomly assigned to groups based on prior-season records.
Based on previous records, five groups are created, each with three teams from different pots.
B. Group Play:
Tournament Nights are every Tuesday and Friday from November 3rd to November 28th.
Teams play one game against each group opponent.
Tiebreakers include head-to-head record, point differential, total points scored, regular-season record from the previous season, and a random drawing if needed.
C. Knockout Rounds:
Single-elimination games start with the quarterfinals on December 4-5.
Games count as regular-season games except for the Championship.
Quarterfinals hosted by the two best group play teams; wild card hosted by the best group play team.
Cross-conference regular-season games for non-qualifying teams on days without tournament games.
III. Prizes and Honors:
A prize pool for players in the Knockout Rounds, with amounts increasing based on the team's tournament progression.
Individual awards, including Most Valuable Player of the competition and the All-Tournament Team, recognize players' performance in Group Play and the Knockout Rounds.
It's an exciting addition to changing fresh dynamics and opportunities for NBA season, the players, and fans. Get ready for a thrilling ride in this new basketball adventure!
This is Dez Barnes of Pretty Girls Love Sports, a new writer on the MTMV Sports platform. I am a retired US Army veteran, professional cheerleader, dog mom, and avid sports lover. Feel free to follow my writings as I dive into the latest sports news! You can find me on all social media channels @PGLOVESPORTS.