A Different Stage, a Different Meaning
Las Vegas is more than just a spectacular backdrop : It has become a revealing stage for the NBA’s evolving competitive landscape. In its third year, the NBA Cup continues to gain meaning, and the final between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs confirms a growing reality: Early-season basketball no longer feels routine.
Well before the traditional playoff timeline, the intensity surrounding this final already mirrors postseason basketball. Both teams approach the matchup with the awareness that this game carries more weight than a typical regular-season contest. On a neutral court, far from home arenas, the stakes feel amplified.
OG Anunoby: “A Good Test, Like a Playoff Game”
For the Knicks, OG Anunoby sees the NBA Cup final as a genuine measuring stick. The British forward described the moment as a true competitive benchmark.
“It’s a good test. Kind of like a playoff game. It’s a big game for both teams, and hopefully it sets the tone for the season and then the playoffs.”
That level of intensity, however, comes with an early physical toll. Anunoby emphasized the importance of daily discipline in a long NBA season.
“Everyone eats, sleeps, recovers, gets in the gym, takes care of their body if needed, and tries to rest as much as possible.”
Josh Hart: Energy First, Bodies Already Tested
Josh Hart echoed the idea that the NBA Cup changes the feel of the early season, even if it doesn’t fully replicate the playoffs.
“It’s fun. It’s a little different than the playoffs, but it gives more importance to the early games of the season. It’s good energy.”
That energy comes at a cost. Hart was candid about the physical demands already being felt.
“A lot of treatment, a lot of ice, Epsom salt baths, stuff like that. The body is a little banged up right now, but you push through until the All-Star break.”
Mitch Robinson: Las Vegas and the Sense of Occasion
For Mitchell Robinson, the setting itself adds to the meaning of the moment. Competing for a trophy on a neutral floor in Las Vegas reinforces the idea that the NBA Cup is becoming something distinct within the league calendar.
“It’s crazy. This in-season tournament is still new, but being here in Vegas, fighting for this cup, it’s incredible.”
Spurs: Youth, Momentum, and Added Stakes
On the Spurs’ side, the NBA Cup final highlights the growth of a young and ambitious roster. Rookie guard Stephon Castle pointed out how these games feel fundamentally different from standard regular-season matchups.
“It adds a little more importance to the games. Like Vic (Wembanyama) said, it’s not a regular-season game, so it counts a little more. It gives you something extra to fight for early in the season.”
Castle also underlined the unique impact of Victor Wembanyama on the team.
“Vic is like nobody else in the league. It’s hard to fill that void when he’s not there. You really feel his presence when he’s on the floor. He’s changed the game for us.”
Devin Vassell: Focus and Continuity
For Devin Vassell, San Antonio’s approach has been rooted in consistency and preparation, even as the intensity increases.
“We’ve been super focused all season. It’s more intense now, but we stay locked in and ready for the moment.”
Vassell also highlighted Wembanyama’s influence beyond the box score.
“He’s an incredible teammate. He’s the first one up when you do something good, always giving feedback. On the court, he’s unique — he does things nobody else can do.”
Harrison Barnes: Perspective and Leadership
Veteran Harrison Barnes offered a broader view of what the NBA Cup represents for the league and for a young Spurs roster.
“The NBA Cup was a goal for us before the season. Watching the last two years, we wanted to see if we could get here. Now that we are, it’s something really special.”
On leadership, Barnes emphasized adaptability rather than authority.
“The most important thing is meeting guys where they are. You can share your experience, but it’s just as important to let everyone grow in their own way.”
A Tournament That’s Here to Stay
In its third year, the NBA Cup is no longer an experiment. The final in Las Vegas between the Knicks and Spurs illustrates how the tournament is steadily carving out its place in the NBA ecosystem. It brings playoff-level pressure, intensity, and preparation months ahead of schedule — a clear sign that meaningful NBA basketball now starts much earlier than it once did.
