The NBA playoffs consist of 16 teams split evenly into two conferences, the Eastern and Western, from around the United States. These teams feature top basketball players from different states as well as international players.

ESPN analyst Kevin Pelton breaks down how the finalist Spurs and semifinalist Magic can use their cup experience for the postseason.

The 2026 NBA playoffs will begin on April 18. The 2025-26 regular season wraps up on April 12, giving teams a short break before the postseason tips off. The Play-In Tournament, introduced in 2021 to keep more teams competitive and reduce tanking, determines the final two playoff spots in each conference.

Though the San Antonio Spurs came up short of a title, their run to the NBA Cup championship game announced the team's arrival as a real threat to the league's very best teams. Including the Knicks, who might've had a tougher time beating San Antonio if Victor Wembanyama wasn't on a minutes restriction in his second game back from injury.

Jalen Brunson roasts Dirk Nowitzki after leading the Knicks to an NBA Cup title, underscoring New York’s rise and Eastern Conference pride.

The San Antonio Spurs star learned of the loss ahead of the Cup final against the Knicks.

The New York Knicks are hitting all the right notes — under new head coach Mike Brown, they’re singing a brand new hit. Twenty-five games into the 2025 NBA season, the Knicks stand tall with an 18-7 record.

Stephen A. Smith was hyped up after the New York Knicks won the 2025 NBA Cup, making a bold prediction for their future. After his favorite team won the 2025 NBA Cup Finals, New York Knicks superfan Stephen A. Smith is elated, which comes as a surprise to no one.