NBA In-Season Tournament Draws Criticism and Praise

Despite Criticisms for Its Complex Format, the Tournament Sees Increased Ratings and Interest

The NBA's inaugural In-Season Tournament has been criticized for its complex format, with calls for a simpler, single-elimination structure.
Despite criticisms, the tournament has seen increased ratings and heightened interest, with players reporting an 'extra energy' in the games.
The current format involves six group winners and two wild-card teams advancing to the quarterfinals, with the potential for teams to be eliminated in an anticlimactic fashion.
Concerns have been raised over the different paint schemes on the tournament-game floors, with some players citing safety concerns due to slipping.
The tournament's quarterfinals are set for Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, with the Final Four in Las Vegas featuring semifinals on Dec. 7 and the championship game on Dec. 9.