Celtics Guide to the 2025 NBA Cup
Group B Overview
The Boston Celtics enter the 2025 NBA Cup aiming to improve on last year’s performance, where they did not progress beyond the group stage despite starting the season as reigning NBA champions. This year, the Celtics compete in Group B alongside the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Brooklyn Nets.
The 2025 NBA Cup, marking the league's third in-season tournament since its 2023 launch, began Friday night with the first group play games. The Celtics started strong, securing a narrow 109-108 victory over the Sixers.
NBA Cup Format and Schedule
The tournament begins with a group stage featuring all 30 teams divided into six groups of five within each conference. Each team plays four games in the group stage (two home and two away), facing every group opponent once.
- Six group winners advance to the knockout rounds
- Two wild card spots go to the second-place teams with the best records, one per conference
Eight teams then move on to a single-elimination knockout phase.
What the Celtics Need to Advance
To reach the knockout stage, the Celtics must finish as the top team in Group B or secure the wild card spot for the conference as the best-performing second-place team.
“Subscribe to NBC Sports Boston's podcast network to hear our Insiders bring you the latest insights on your favorite teams!”
Below is Boston’s schedule and the latest standings in Group B to watch as the tournament progresses.
Author’s Summary
The Celtics start their 2025 NBA Cup quest with a tight win and face a crucial group stage test to reclaim their status and advance to the knockout rounds.