Celtics Guide to the 2025 NBA Cup: Schedule, Group B Standings, and More
The 2025 NBA Cup, the league's third in-season tournament since its 2023 debut, begins Friday night with the start of group play. The Boston Celtics enter the competition in Group B alongside the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Brooklyn Nets.
Despite being the reigning NBA champions, the Celtics were unable to progress beyond the group stage in the 2024 NBA Cup. They started the 2025 group stage strong with a narrow 109-108 victory over the Sixers on opening night.
NBA Cup Tournament Format
- All 30 NBA teams participate, divided into six groups of five within their respective conferences.
- Each team plays four group stage games, facing every group opponent once—two games at home and two on the road.
- The knockout stage features eight teams: the top team from each group plus a wild card from each conference, awarded to the second-place team with the best overall record.
What the Celtics Need for Knockout Qualification
To advance, Boston must finish as the leader in Group B or secure the wild card berth by achieving the best record among second-place teams in their conference.
Group B Standings and Schedule Highlights
The Celtics currently lead Group B after their opening win and continue their group stage campaign against the 76ers, Pistons, Magic, and Nets.
"The Celtics started the group stage Friday night with a 109-108 win over the Sixers."
Subscribe to NBC Sports Boston's podcast network to catch insider analysis and updates on your favorite teams throughout the NBA Cup.
Author's Summary: The Celtics kick off the 2025 NBA Cup aiming to surpass last year's group stage exit, starting strong with a close win as they pursue advancement in a competitive Group B.