When the NBA first unveiled the inaugural in-season tournament, players and fans were slow to embrace the new tradition. During the group stage of games throughout November, members of the Boston Celtics began to warm up to the tournament. And after winning Group C, the Celtics are headed to Indianapolis for a win-or-go-home quarterfinal game against the Indiana Pacers.
The tournament itself is an experiment from the NBA inspired by European soccer and other professional sports leagues that have multiple cups, trophies, and other special stretches on the calendar. The NBA used new courts, jerseys, and other branding to try and build excitement and familiarity among fans, while a cash prize for the winners is meant to entice players.
Now that Boston has advanced to the knockout round, the enthusiasm for the tournament is building.
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Celtics guard Derrick White explained he and his teammates are looking forward to Monday’s action.
“I think everybody’s pretty excited about it,” White said. “It’s a little bit different, and something that’s never been done before.”
If Boston wins against Indiana, they will advance to the next stage. Both the semifinal and final rounds of the in-season tournament will be held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
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If Boston loses on Monday, they’ll play a home game with the other quarterfinal loser in the East. Either way, it’s a new and unique experience for the Celtics.
“Especially this quarterfinal, I think everybody’s looking forward to it,” White said. “We’re trying to go out to Indiana and get a tough road win, and hopefully go to Vegas.”
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