The NBA In-Season Tournament makes its debut this season, becoming the latest addition to the NBA scheduling.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver is searching for ways to incentivize the regular season. When first introduced, the tournament received mixed opinions from players and fans.
When the NBA Play-In Tournament was first integrated, there was some uncertainty, but it has now become an entertaining part to the playoff race. There have been a fair share of entertaining Play-In games through the years.
The In-Season tournament features Group Play and Knockout Rounds similar to the World Cup, with the Championship taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. With Group Play beginning in November, the NBA has unveiled special In-Season Tournament courts for all 30 teams, including the Toronto Raptors:
Thoughts on the Raptors new court for the in-season tournament? 🤔
(📸: @NBA)pic.twitter.com/bkewe2Q30o
— theScore (@theScore) October 30, 2023
This new Raptors court fits the OVO theme, painted in black and gold with the NBA cup behind the team’s logo at center court. The goal was to make new and distinct courts for each team, fully painted and bold designs.
The court will be exclusively used for In-Season tournament games, which will take place on Tuesday’s and Friday’s in November.
Toronto’s first Group Play game is on Friday, Nov. 17 against the Boston Celtics at Scotiabank Arena. Followed by Nov. 21 against the Orlando Magic, Nov. 24 versus the Chicago Bulls and Nov. 28 against the Brooklyn Nets.
The eight teams with the best record in Group Play will advance to the Knockout Rounds, where it continues into December.
$500,000 is awarded to each player of the winning team, plus the NBA Cup. It is worth noting, these games count towards the regular season record.
Raptors fall to Nick Nurse & 76ers
The Raptors fell short against the Philadelphia 76ers 114-107. Nick Nurse was able to pick up a win in his return to Toronto.
O.G. Anunoby sat this one with muscle cramps and the Raptors missed his presence. The Raptors were simply unable to contain Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, who both scored 34 points.
Next up is the Portland Trail Blazers on Oct. 30, as Toronto continues their homestand.
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