The NBA playoffs consist of 16 teams split evenly into two conferences, the Eastern and Western, from around the United States. These teams feature top basketball players from different states as well as international players.

But Charles Barkley believes the concept of the Cup itself is “embarrassing.” “I think the cup thing is somewhat embarrassing,” Barkley told media personality Tom Tolbert on his YouTube show (via Awful Announcing). “I’m disappointed that we have to make an in-season tournament to make these guys more money so they won’t do load management.”

But on the very first night of the new NBA season in October, a scout watching San Antonio Spurs big man Victor Wembanyama raised a proverbial white flag as the 21-year-old from France completed a 40-point highlight reel of body-contorting dunks, blocked shots, crossover dribbles and deep 3-pointers.

The NBA pushes players to perform at their highest level using one clear motivator: money. The Emirates NBA Cup offers cash incentives for players and coaches.

Expert recap and game analysis of the New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs NBA game from December 16, 2025 on ESPN.

The Steelers played one of their best games of the season, dominating the Dolphins 28-15, winning their 23rd straight home MNF game. 28/22 Sports Night will also discuss the conclusion of the NBA Cup and whether it is a good thing or not,

The 2025-26 NBA season is a quarter of the way complete. The All-Star break is fast approaching.  It'll be here before we know it. The Houston Rockets have perf

Quinn Allen's favorite NBA player props for Wednesday, December 17, include Darius Garland, Kevin Huerter, and Julius Randle.

It should be no surprise that Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff (+250) and Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson (+1000) have the second- and third-shortest odds to win coach of the year behind Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault.

The 2025 Indiana Mr. Basketball is playing himself into a favorable 2026 NBA Draft position as a Connecticut freshman.

The 2025 NBA Cup is behind us, as the New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night to become the third NBA Cup champion in league history. No

Hall of Famer Charles Barkley dismissed the NBA's in-season tournament, calling it “embarrassing" and questioning why players need extra pay to compete.