## 2025 NBA Cup Knockout Bracket
The field for the 2025 NBA In-Season Tournament is now finalized, with eight teams advancing to the knockout stage following intense group play across both conferences.
### Eastern Conference Highlights
The Toronto Raptors and the Orlando Magic dominated their respective groups, each finishing with an undefeated 4–0 record. The Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers joined them in the knockout rounds as the top-performing wild card and group runner-up.
> “We focused on consistency and depth every night,” said Magic coach Jamahl Mosley.
### Western Conference Highlights
In the West, the Denver Nuggets and Sacramento Kings came out on top of their groups. The Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers secured the remaining spots, setting the stage for a highly competitive bracket.
> “Every game mattered, and we treated each one like a playoff,” commented Denver’s Nikola Jokic.
### Next Stage Bracket
The quarterfinal matchups will officially commence next week, featuring inter-conference pairings based on performance and point differential. Winners will advance to the semifinals and, ultimately, to the NBA Cup Final in Las Vegas.
#### Expected Quarterfinal Structure
- Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
- Orlando Magic vs. Milwaukee Bucks
- Denver Nuggets vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Sacramento Kings vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Each game will be a single-elimination contest, intensifying the tournament atmosphere as the teams vie for the inaugural midseason trophy.
### About the NBA Cup
The NBA Cup aims to inject new excitement into the regular season, offering teams not only prize money but also competitive motivation. Fans have embraced the format for its unpredictable outcomes and fast-paced stakes.
> “It’s a different kind of pressure, but we’re embracing it,” noted Sacramento’s De’Aaron Fox.
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**Author Summary:** The 2025 NBA Cup knockout round will feature eight teams, with powerhouse performances from Toronto and Orlando leading the charge into single-elimination matchups for the midseason title.
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Sports Illustrated on MSN — 2025-11-29