What happened: The NBA has finalized the group-stage draw for the Emirates NBA Cup 2026. All 30 teams were sorted into groups of five within their own conference, seeded by their win-loss records from the 2025-26 regular season. Group play tips off Oct. 30 and runs through Nov. 27 on designated 'Cup Nights.'

Why it matters: The Cup gives the early season a competitive stake beyond the standings, with a knockout bracket and in-season hardware on the line. Because the groups are drawn on last season's records, the format keeps stronger teams distributed and sets up marquee cross-market matchups before the calendar even turns to December.

What to watch: Watch for the full group-by-group matchups and the Cup Night schedule, which will shape early-season rest and rotation decisions across both conferences.