Sitting courtside, the NBA’s In-Season Tournament Courts
The NBA season is here and with some reception. For the first time ever, teams will be competing for multiple trophies during the NBA season, with the announcement of the new NBA In-Season Tournament. With the first games having tipped off on the 4th of November, the turnaround for knockout games is exactly a month after, on the 4th and 5th of December, then following that the semis on the 7th and the final on the 9th. With a format almost identical to many football tournaments, such as the UEFA Champions League the appeal is definitely there for not just basketball fans, but sporting fans alike.
The NBA’s EVP of basketball strategy and analysis, Evan Wasch spoke to The Athletic’s Mike Vorkunov earlier this year, emphasising the excitement for teams to have something to chase earlier on in the season.
“We think this is a really unique opportunity to create a second championship, create a tradition that serves as a legacy builder for teams and players.”
EVAN WASCH
Not only are the stakes high for teams to stay focused throughout the entire NBA season, but they’re also high for the players to take this as an opportunity to build a legacy through triumphs in the tournament,
“When we look back at players’ careers and resumes over time we can build in their performance in the in-season tournament, along with all the other accolades that NBA players achieve.”
The spectacle that’s really catching the eye though, is the courts. The NBA released 30 new court designs, all matching the same theme, and all with uniquely striking colours. The NBA wanted to ensure fans knew the importance of these games, and though they may count towards regular season standings, they also have a greater emphasis towards something bigger.
The courts have received quite varied reception, there’s either too much going on, or it’s a crazy step into some unchartered territory. With a feel that’s quite similar to that of an NBA2K24 MyCourt, you aren’t quite sure how to react or feel about it. There are definitely some positives though, as the NBA courts, and design aspects in general over the last couple of seasons have been seen as quite flat and uninspired. Adding the trophy and a massive stripe through the middle as the teams strive towards the finals in Las Vegas, has been a nice addition, especially since the NBA phased trophy graphics out of their courts in the early 2010s.
The introduction of the NBA In-Season Tournament, as well as the unique court designs, is a step in the right direction for individuality, and true home-court advantage in the NBA. Uncertainty remains, but the potential is endless.
