The Emirates NBA Cup began in 2023 as the NBA In-Season Tournament to heighten midseason competition and fan engagement. All 30 teams play in six conference-based groups of five, with four games each counting toward regular-season standings, before advancing to knockout rounds that end with semifinals and a championship game in Las Vegas. Emirates became the title sponsor in 2024. The Lakers captured the first title in 2023-24 (MVP: LeBron James), the Bucks won undefeated in 2024-25 (MVP: Giannis Antetokounmpo), and the Knicks claimed the 2025-26 crown (MVP: Jalen Brunson). Players on the winning team earn over $500,000 each in prize money.