Oklahoma City Thunder Lead Early 2026 NBA Cup Odds

The Oklahoma City Thunder have been identified as the frontrunners in the early odds for the 2026 NBA Cup, according to Polymarket, a popular prediction market platform. Their combination of depth and star talent positions them well as they prepare for the upcoming season.

However, the Thunder will face stiff competition from the Philadelphia 76ers and San Antonio Spurs, who are also seen as strong contenders. The Spurs, who were last season's finalists, have bolstered their roster with the addition of Tobias Harris, while the 76ers are expected to manage the minutes of their stars, LeBron James and Joel Embiid, as they prioritize a championship run over the in-season tournament.

As the NBA season approaches, teams will be placed into randomly drawn groups for the tournament's opening round, which will run from October 31 to November 28. Each group will consist of teams playing regular-season games against one another on designated Tournament Nights, with the results determining advancement to the Knockout Round, set to begin on December 9-10.

The Knockout Round will feature eight teams in a single-elimination format, culminating in semifinals and finals at Hinkle Fieldhouse on December 13 and 16. Teams that progress will share in a prize pool, and an MVP and All-Tournament Team will be recognized following the conclusion of the tournament.