## Group Stage Conclusion
As group play in the 2025 NBA Cup wraps up on Friday night, six of the eight knockout stage spots are set to be decided. Teams are battling to secure their positions before the single-elimination rounds begin.
## Confirmed Advancements
The New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, Oklahoma City Thunder, and San Antonio Spurs have already earned their places in the knockout stage by winning their respective groups. Their performances showcased strong defense, balanced scoring, and consistent teamwork throughout the tournament.
### Group Winners
- **New York Knicks** – Dominated their group with improved offensive efficiency.
- **Orlando Magic** – Continued their rise with disciplined play and tough defense.
- **Oklahoma City Thunder** – Displayed strong chemistry led by their young core.
- **San Antonio Spurs** – Secured a spot after a decisive win aided by precise ball movement.
## Remaining Spots
Two additional knockout spots remain open. These will go to the best second-place finishers across the groups based on point differential and head-to-head results. Several teams, including the Celtics and Lakers, remain in contention depending on the outcomes of Friday’s final games.
## Knockout Round Outlook
The upcoming knockout rounds will determine who advances to the semifinals and, ultimately, the championship of the inaugural 2025 NBA Cup. The tournament has offered a midseason competitive spark, giving fans high-intensity basketball outside the regular season standings.
> "It's a great opportunity for teams to test themselves under playoff-like conditions early in the year," said one NBA analyst.
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**Author’s Summary:** Four teams — Knicks, Magic, Thunder, and Spurs — have secured NBA Cup knockout spots, with two more to be decided after Friday’s final group games.
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CBS Sports on MSN — 2025-11-29