Phoenix Suns to Face Denver Nuggets in NBA Cup Group Play
The Phoenix Suns have announced their schedule for group play in the Emirates NBA Cup 2026, with their first game against the Denver Nuggets on October 30. The Suns will begin their campaign against the Nuggets before taking three weeks off NBA Cup action.
What Happened?
The Suns have made it to the knockout round twice in three years (2023 and 2025), both as a wild card team. They lost in the quarterfinals both times to the West's top seed. Last result: Phoenix Suns 122-131 Oklahoma City Thunder (2026-04-28). Recent form (last 5): 1W-0D-4L (LLLLW, most recent first); lost the last 4.
Why it Matters for Phoenix Suns
The Suns are in West Group A, which will send at least its team with the best record following the four games to the knockout round. One wild card team from each conference with the best record and point differential among the teams who didn't win their group will also make it to the knockout round.
What Comes Next?
The Suns will then play their final three games in group play over an eight-day stretch. Their schedule includes games against the Utah Jazz, Houston Rockets, and Dallas Mavericks. The full slate for the NBA's regular season will come out on Thursday.
Key Details
The teams who do not qualify for the knockout round will get two newly scheduled games added, while the championship game goes into the books as an extra 83rd game that does not count in the regular-season standings. All other games do count in the standings. NBA Cup champions received over $500,000 for each player in last year's iteration, while runner-ups received $200,000.
Conclusion
The Phoenix Suns are set to face a challenging schedule in the Emirates NBA Cup 2026, but they have shown their ability to perform under pressure in previous years. With their strong roster and experienced coaching staff, they will be looking to make a deep run in the tournament.
