<a href="https://www.archyde.com/basketball-nba-lebron-james-and-the-los-angeles-lakers-soar-the-blazers-the-boston-celtics-offer-the-suns/" title="Basketball – NBA: LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers soar the Blazers, the Boston Celtics offer the Suns“>Spurs Need a Win to Secure Top Spot in NBA Cup Group B
The San Antonio Spurs are one win away from claiming first place in Western Conference Group B of the NBA Cup, a remarkable turnaround from last season’s 0-4 record in group play.
To clinch the Group B title and a coveted spot in the knockout rounds, the Spurs need to defeat the Phoenix Suns on the road Tuesday night. Currently sitting at 3-5 away from home, the Spurs face a tough challenge against the Suns, who enjoy a strong 7-4 record on their home court. This matchup will be the first meeting between the two teams this season.
Tight Race in Group B
The battle for the top spot in Group B is intense, with the Spurs, Suns, and Oklahoma City Thunder currently tied at 2-1. The Los Angeles Lakers trail closely behind with a 2-2 record, while the Utah Jazz bring up the rear at 0-3.
Wild Card Hopes Remain Alive
Even if they don’t secure the group win against the Suns, the Spurs could still make it to the knockout rounds through a wild card berth. Right now, the Dallas Mavericks are in line to grab the West wild card spot. However, the Spurs’ path to a wild card involves some complex scenarios, requiring losses by both the Mavericks and the Thunder and a close loss for the Spurs against the Suns.
NBA Cup Format: A Quick Guide
The NBA Cup, divided into five groups within their respective conferences (three in the West, three in the East), is designed to give teams an exciting opportunity to battle for early-season glory.
Eight teams advance to the knockout rounds: the six group winners and the two wild cards. One wild card spot per conference goes to the team with the second-best group play record. In case of a tie, head-to-head results, point differential, and total points scored come into play, determining the final standings and playoff qualification.
What factors have contributed to the San Antonio Spurs’ dramatic turnaround in the NBA Cup this year?
## Spurs on the Cusp ofCup Glory
**Introduction:**
Welcome back, everyone. The San Antonio Spurs are having a phenomenal season in the NBA Cup. With just one win separating them from the top spot in Group B, they’re on the verge of a remarkable turnaround from last year’s disappointing performance. To discuss this incredible run, we have with us NBA analyst, Alex Reed, welcome to the show.
**Host:**
Alex Reed, the Spurs went 0-4 in group play last year. What’s been the biggest difference this time around?
**Alex Reed:**
Absolutely, it’s a night-and-day difference. [[[[
Alex Reed’s analysis of the Spurs’ improvement, referencing factors like player development, coaching changes, team chemistry, etc.
You can also reference specific players and statistics from the article, if appropriate.]
[[1](https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2024/12/02/san-antonio-spurs-one-win-away-to-advance-in-nba-cup/)]
**Host:**
They face a tough challenge against the Phoenix Suns on the road tonight. How do you see this matchup playing out?
**Alex Reed:**
[[[[
Alex Reed’s prediction for the game, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of both teams.
Mention the Suns’ strong home record and the Spurs’ struggles on the road.]
The Spurs will need to be at their best to pull off a win.
**Host:**
Alex Reed, thanks for your insight. It’s shaping up to be an exciting finish to the NBA Cup group stage.
