The NBA has officially unveiled the courts that will be in use throughout the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament, which kicked off on Friday, November 3rd, with a thrilling doubleheader on ESPN.
These courts, designated for Group Play and the Quarterfinals, feature a striking and unique design that spans the entire league. This design serves to clearly signify to fans when a game holds significance in the context of the NBA In-Season Tournament.
This marks the first time that the league has introduced an alternate court for all 30 NBA teams. Additionally, it represents the inaugural experience of the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Portland Trail Blazers playing on such an alternate court in their respective franchise histories.
The courts sport a vibrant and bold color palette, including the following design elements:
- A fully painted court, extending from edge to edge.
- A prominent NBA Cup at center court, showcasing the new championship trophy for both players and fans.
- A visually striking contrast of color running from one end of the court to the other, creating a 16-foot-wide “runway” down the middle.
- NBA Cup silhouettes adorning the lanes.
- Team logos placed around the NBA Cup at center court and along the baselines.
The NBA In-Season Tournament commenced with Group Play on November 3rd in NBA team markets. The Knockout Rounds, featuring single-elimination matches, begin with the Quarterfinals on December 4th and 5th, still played in team markets.
The tournament will reach its climax at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with the Semifinals taking place on December 7th and the Championship game scheduled for December 9th.
This In-Season Tournament is a fresh addition to the NBA calendar, involving the participation of all 30 teams.
They have been divided into six groups, with each team set to play four Group Play games, facing every team in their group once, on specified “Tournament Nights.”
The group winners and the team from each conference with the best record that finishes second in its group will advance to the Quarterfinals, adding further excitement to the NBA season.
