The NBA Cup’s group stage will deliver its most electric showdown yet when the LA Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers collide in a late-night battle for city supremacy—and critical tournament positioning—on Tuesday, November 25 at 11:00 PM ET. This isn’t just another chapter in the storied Staples Center rivalry; it’s a high-stakes clash where every possession could swing group standings and momentum in the league’s midseason showcase. With both squads hungry to assert dominance in the new Cup format, expect a frenetic, defensive-minded duel where pride and playoff implications collide under the same roof.

Recent history between these teams has been a masterclass in contrast—one side’s precision against the other’s star power—but this iteration adds fresh intrigue. The Clippers, built on depth and relentless execution, will look to exploit any defensive lapses, while the Lakers’ dynamic core aims to turn the game into a highlight-reel showcase. In a tournament where every game counts double, this late-night special won’t just crown a city champion for the night—it could shape the entire NBA Cup landscape.