The second iteration of the NBA Cup is down to four teams. After two days of elimination games, the Milwaukee Bucks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Atlanta Hawks and Houston Rockets will travel to Las Vegas for Saturday’s semifinals with a massive cash prize, bragging rights and a banner await in the championship game Tuesday.
The quarterfinals were collectively intense and competitive contests that made for enjoyable viewing experiences. And on-screen, at least, it appeared like the players were giving extra effort in a playoff-like atmosphere—or as close as anyone will get in December.
