The 2026 Emirates NBA Cup group stage commenced on Friday with 10 games featuring high-scoring performances and historic statistical milestones. As the tournament's fourth iteration begins, teams are fighting for a spot in the knockout rounds, where group winners and two wild-card teams will advance to the quarterfinals.

Historic comeback and standout performances

The Golden State Warriors provided the night's most dramatic moment by erasing a 23-point first-quarter deficit to defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 112-95. This marked the first time in the shot-clock era that a team trailed by at least 23 points after the opening frame and managed to tie or lead by halftime. Stephen Curry led the charge with 31 points and eight three-pointers, also passing Dominique Wilkins on the all-time scoring list from beyond the arc.

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Other notable individual achievements included:

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo: 31 points, 18 rebounds, and 10 assists for the Miami Heat.
  • Jamal Murray: 39 points and seven three-pointers in a Denver Nuggets win.
  • Scottie Barnes: A career-high 41 points.
  • Cooper Flagg: 33 points, joining LeBron James as the only teenagers to average 25 points through five games.

How does the NBA Cup format work?

All 30 teams are divided into six random groups of five. Each team plays four group-stage games—two at home and two away—which also count toward regular-season standings. The winners of each group and two wild-card teams move on to the single-elimination knockout stage. The tournament will culminate in a final on Dec. 11 at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

In Philadelphia, the 76ers secured a 98-93 win over the defending NBA and NBA Cup champion New York Knicks. Despite playing without Jaylen Brown, Philadelphia relied on Tyrese Maxey's 27 points and LeBron James's 20 points to secure the victory. The Knicks' loss drops them to a 2-4 record for the season.

FAQ

Which teams advance to the knockout round?

Group winners from each of the six groups and two wild-card teams will advance to the quarterfinals.

Where will the NBA Cup final be held?

The championship game is scheduled to take place at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Dec. 11.