For the second straight season, the NBA will hold its new play-in tournament this fall. It is something that debuted a year ago to mixed reviews, but it is here to stay. The airline Emirates is now the official sponsor of the tournament,

Although the Pacers lost to the Los Angeles Lakers, the journey became a transitional experience. Perhaps the NBA will do a better job scheduling the Emirates NBA Cup, as last season's awkward start times led to fewer fans attending the games, ultimately making for lackluster energy that exuded through the television screen.

An NBA 2K25 game file, which is not yet publicly available, suggests the second NBA Cup will feature different court designs after an image of the Orlando Magic's home floor was leaked on social media.