Live NBA Cup Semifinals: Updates, Results, and Key Takeaways
The NBA Cup semifinals are set to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas this Saturday. The action begins with a doubleheader showcasing two exciting matchups. At 5:30 p.m. ET, the New York Knicks will take on the Orlando Magic, followed by the Oklahoma City Thunder facing the San Antonio Spurs at 9:00 p.m. ET. Winners from these games will advance to the finals, scheduled for Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Matchup Details: Knicks vs. Magic
The Orlando Magic enter the semifinals after a solid performance, defeating the Miami Heat 117-108 in the quarterfinals. Desmond Bane led the Magic with a season-high 37 points. However, the team will be without their leading scorer, Franz Wagner, due to a left ankle sprain. Paolo Banchero, back from a groin injury, has played in the last three games and will look to make an impact.
- Orlando Magic quarterfinal result: Victory over Miami Heat (117-108)
- Leading scorer: Desmond Bane (37 points)
- Franz Wagner: Out with ankle sprain
- Paolo Banchero: Has returned from injury
The New York Knicks, on the other hand, secured their place in the semifinals by defeating the Toronto Raptors 117-101. This matchup featured 10 lead changes until the Knicks took control early in the second quarter. New York has been successful, winning four consecutive games, with guard Josh Hart playing a significant role. Since he joined the starting lineup, the Knicks have an impressive 8-1 record.
- New York Knicks quarterfinal result: Victory over Toronto Raptors (117-101)
- Winning streak: Four games
- Key player: Josh Hart (8-1 record as a starter)
Matchup Details: Thunder vs. Spurs
The Oklahoma City Thunder come to Las Vegas as the defending NBA champions. They reached the NBA Cup final last season and have an impressive record this year. Currently, they hold a historic 24-1 start, mirroring the best opening through 25 games in NBA history set by the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors. The Thunder also set a franchise record with 16 consecutive wins, showcasing their dominance by defeating the Phoenix Suns 138-89 in the quarterfinals, marking the largest margin of victory in NBA Cup history.
- Oklahoma City Thunder quarterfinal result: Victory over Phoenix Suns (138-89)
- Current record: 24-1, best start in NBA history
- Consecutive wins: 16, a franchise record
In contrast, the San Antonio Spurs aim to continue their surprising run. They recently defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 132-119 in the quarterfinals. Despite missing star player Victor Wembanyama due to a calf injury, Stephon Castle stepped up with an impressive 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. Wembanyama is expected to return for the semifinal matchup.
- San Antonio Spurs quarterfinal result: Victory over Los Angeles Lakers (132-119)
- Key player: Stephon Castle (30 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists)
- Victor Wembanyama: Expected to play on Saturday
Looking Ahead to the Finals
The anticipation builds as teams vie for a spot in the NBA Cup finals. With high stakes and standout performances expected, fans can look forward to an exciting evening of basketball. Follow El-Balad for the latest updates, highlights, and reactions from these thrilling semifinals.
