Let the games begin

Pro basketball has a new star attraction – and we’re not just talking about Victor Wembanyama. Tonight, the NBA’s inaugural “In-Season Tournament” officially tips off.

How it works…

• Group play: All 30 NBA teams have been divided into six groups of five. Beginning today and continuing through November 28, teams will play four designated Group Play games on “Tournament Nights” – one game against each opponent in its group.
• Knockout rounds: Eight teams will advance to this stage – the team that wins each group, as well as two “wild cards.” The Knockout Rounds, which begin December 4 and December 5, consist of single-elimination games until only one team remains (the winner).

What’s at stake: Tournament games count towards each team’s regular-season record – with the exception of the championship game. And players can also earn some ca$h money. Depending on where their teams finish, athletes will be awarded between $50,000 (for making it to the quarterfinals) and $500,000 (for winning the tourney).

The NBA is hoping this in-season tournament will drive more eyeballs and revenue. From newly designed courts created to catch the eye of channel-flippers to the timing of the tournament, everything is being geared towards boosting regular season numbers. NBA playoff basketball averages 244% more viewers than your average regular season NBA game (5.47 million vs. 1.59 million). And another wrinkle: The league is currently negotiating new media-rights deals, which will go into effect after the 2024-25 season.