NBA Cup/In-Season Tournament Trophy and Prize Money Explained

The NBA has become one of the most popular sports leagues in the world in recent years. The league has averaged a viewership of 5.47 million per game on ABC, ESPN, and TNT. Continued development and innovation by the leadership of the NBA have resulted in the NBA’s constant growth.

The NBA’s second annual In-Season Tournament, now the Emirates NBA Cup, begins this Tuesday. Defending champions, the Los Angeles Lakers, aim to retain their title. Over the next 35 days, all teams compete in a high-stakes, thrilling event that blends group play, knockout rounds, and significant financial rewards. With that said, it’s time to get to know some details of the league.

Does the In-Season Tournament/NBA Cup have an MVP award?

Yes, the NBA In-Season Tournament has its own MVP award. After the final Championship game, a media panel selects the Most Valuable Player of the Emirates NBA Cup, based on performance in both the Group Play and Knockout Rounds. Alongside this, the NBA In-Season Tournament MVP Trophy is awarded, designed by Tiffany & Co. and Victor Solomon. The trophy’s sleek black and gold design mirrors the championship’s prong design. Last season, LeBron James claimed the honor, solidifying his legendary status early in the season with an all-around dominant performance.

What is the prize money for the winners of the NBA Cup/In-Season Tournament? Do the losing teams also get prize money?

For the 2024-25 NBA Cup, players can earn a financial prize based on their team’s performance. The winners of the Championship will receive $514,971 each, while players on the losing team take home $205,988. Those eliminated in the semifinals get $102,994, and quarterfinal losers earn $51,497. While these figures might not compare to the highest NBA salaries, they still provide significant motivation, especially for players with smaller contracts. For some, it’s more than just extra cash—it’s life-changing money that adds extra incentive to compete at the highest level during the tournament.

In summary, the Emirates NBA Cup adds excitement and intensity to the regular season, offering teams a chance for early glory and financial rewards. With this, it’s become a must-watch event—who will rise to the challenge and claim the title?