The 2025 NBA Cup, the league's third in-season tournament since its 2023 launch, begins Friday night with group play kickoff. The Boston Celtics enter the competition in Group B alongside the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Brooklyn Nets.
Despite starting last season as reigning NBA champions, the Celtics did not advance beyond the 2024 NBA Cup group stage. This year, they opened group play with a narrow 109-108 victory over the Sixers, aiming to improve on that result.
All 30 NBA teams are divided into six groups of five within their conferences. Each team plays four group games—one against each group opponent, split evenly between home and away.
Group B is highly competitive, featuring formidable opponents the Celtics must outperform to progress.
"The Boston Celtics started group stage Friday night with a 109-108 win over the Sixers."
Following the group matches, the top teams will enter knockout play, intensifying the pursuit of the NBA Cup title.
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Author's summary: The 2025 NBA Cup kicks off with the Celtics aiming to overcome their previous group stage exit, starting strong in a competitive Group B with hopes to reach the knockout rounds.