Overview
- Eight teams advanced from group play, with quarterfinals set for Dec. 9 (Heat at Magic, Knicks at Raptors) and Dec. 10 (Suns at Thunder, Spurs at Lakers).
- Semifinals are scheduled for Dec. 13 and the championship will be played on Dec. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas at 8:30 p.m. ET.
- The Thunder enter as heavy favorites after a dominant start and will face Phoenix in a rematch of their 123-119 group-stage win.
- Oklahoma City’s outlook improves with Jalen Williams and Aaron Wiggins back in the rotation, while San Antonio has remained competitive in Wembanyama’s absence.
- Matchup analysis highlights Toronto’s defense and depth as a stern potential test for the favorites, with Orlando seen as a more favorable opponent given its weaker three-point shooting, and player bonuses exceeding $500,000 add stakes across the field.