With the 2024-25 NBA season underway, excitement builds around this year’s NBA Cup, set to tip off Nov. 12. After the inaugural tournament’s success in 2023, anticipation runs high among fans, especially in Indianapolis, where the Pacers made a memorable run to the tournament finals.
Last season, the NBA Cup, then known as the In-Season Tournament, captivated audiences and set new viewership records. The final matchup between the Indiana Pacers and the Los Angeles Lakers drew 3.5 million viewers, a significant milestone that underscored the tournament’s appeal. Overall, the event reached an average audience of 2.2 million viewers across its broadcast, indicating strong engagement from fans eager to see their teams compete in this unique format.
Related: How the 2024 NBA Cup works
The Pacers’ journey to the NBA Cup finals engaged many fans far and wide. Under the leadership of head coach Rick Carlisle, they showcased an entertaining style of play, navigating the group stage with impressive performances. The team finished strong in their bracket, utilizing point differentials to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.
Their thrilling semifinal victory over the Denver Nuggets further fueled the Indiana faithful’s hopes, culminating in a matchup with LeBron James and the Lakers. Although the Pacers fell short in the NBA Cup championship contest, their strong showing left a lasting impression and laid a foundation for future success.
Understanding the tournament format is essential for fans. The NBA Cup includes group play, where teams compete in a round-robin format. Each team plays four games, with victories and point differentials determining standings. The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage, leading to a thrilling championship clash. This format not only increases the stakes for every game but also keeps fans engaged throughout the competition.
Related: Pacers vs. Celtics, 2023 NBA Cup
Another highlight of last year’s tournament was the unique court designs for each team, a feature that is likely to return this year. These custom courts added a visual flair, enhancing the in-arena experience and making each game feel distinct. The NBA aims to maintain this creative touch, as fans look forward to seeing how their team’s court will look in 2024.
With the NBA Cup just around the corner, excitement in Indiana is palpable. Fans are ready to rally behind their team, hoping for a deep playoff run in what promises to be another exhilarating edition of the NBA Cup. As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the Pacers to see if they can once again capture the magic that made last year’s finals so memorable.
Contact multi-media & senior sports reporter Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more sports from the Indianapolis Recorder, click here.
