Celtics guide to the 2025 NBA Cup: Schedule, Group B standings and more

Celtics Guide to the 2025 NBA Cup

The 2025 NBA Cup, the league's third in-season tournament since its launch in 2023, begins Friday night with the start of group play. The Boston Celtics, reigning NBA champions, aim to improve on their 2024 performance where they did not advance past the group stage.

Group B Overview

The Celtics compete in Group B alongside the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Brooklyn Nets. They opened the tournament with a narrow 109-108 victory over the 76ers.

Group Stage Format

All 30 NBA teams participate, divided into six groups of five within each conference.
Each team plays four group games: one against each group opponent, with two games at home and two on the road.
The top team from each group advances to the knockout rounds.
Additionally, one wild card team per conference advances, chosen as the second-place team with the best overall record.

What the Celtics Need to Advance

To reach the knockout stage, Boston must secure the top spot in Group B or claim the wild card by finishing second with a strong record. Their strong start gives them momentum in this aim.

"The Boston Celtics failed to advance past the group stage of the 2024 NBA Cup despite entering the season as the reigning NBA champions. Can they flip that script in 2025?"

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NBC Sports Boston — 2025-11-01