The 2026 Emirates NBA Cup group stage schedule has been released, with action every Friday from Oct. 30 to Nov. 27 and special Thanksgiving week games. The knockout rounds begin Dec. 4 (quarterfinals) and Dec. 8/9 (semifinals), all at home sites. The championship moves from Las Vegas to Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Dec. 11.

After the New York Knicks became the first team to win both the NBA Cup and Finals, they face tough competition in East Group B, which includes the Cavaliers, 76ers, Heat, and Pacers.\n\nThe format splits 30 teams into six five-team groups based on prior season finish (pots). Each team plays four group games. Group winners plus the best non-winner advance.

All group games count toward regular-season standings, ensuring motivation. Teams reaching the final play 83 games, but the championship doesn't count toward stats or standings. Commissioner Adam Silver modeled the tournament after European soccer cup competitions.\n\nNotable West Group A includes Nuggets, Rockets, Suns, Mavericks, Jazz, while West Group B features Thunder, Timberwolves, Clippers, Pelicans, Grizzlies.

The league aims to minimize back-to-backs and avoid empty calendar days.