The 2023-24 season will mark the inaugural NBA in-season tournament.
The tournament will have a group phase with all 30 teams split into six groups of five. The Thunder will be in the West Group C with the Golden State Warriors, Sacramento Kings, San Antonio Spurs and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Each team will play its fellow group teams once for four total games. Afterward, the six group winners and two at-large teams will take part in a single-elimination tournament to crown a winner.
The semifinals and finals will be played in Las Vegas from Dec. 7 to Dec. 9.
The concept of the in-season tournament generated some controversy; some fans are against the idea while others are more open to trying it.
When asked about it, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leaned toward the latter camp. He thinks it could spice up an otherwise mundane part of the long regular-season schedule.
“I’m excited,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “It’ll be fun to add a little excitement. A different feel to the games. It’ll be fun.”
When asked if he fully understood the convoluted format, Gilgeous-Alexander said he treats every game the same, and it won’t affect his effort level.
“To be completely honest with you, I’m going to try to win every basketball game,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Whatever happens, happens. I’m gonna go out there and take it like it’s the 42nd game against Philadelphia. I’m just gonna try to give it my all.”
SGA on the in-season tournament:
“It’ll be fun to add a little bit excitement. A different feel to the games.” pic.twitter.com/4WvoonlHPG
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) October 4, 2023
It’ll be interesting to see how teams treat the in-season tournament games throughout November. In theory, a young and inexperienced team like the Thunder might care more about it than a veteran team that will value rest and the playoffs more.
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