Introduction to the NBA Playoffs

The NBA Playoffs represent the pinnacle of professional basketball each year, featuring the top 16 teams from the league vying for the championship title. This multi-round elimination tournament determines the league’s champion and is known for its high-stakes, high-octane games, dramatic moments, and legendary performances. To appreciate the significance and excitement of the NBA Playoffs, it’s essential to understand the structure, key elements, and history of this premier sporting event.

How Teams Qualify for the Playoffs

The NBA Playoffs consist of 16 teams: eight from the Eastern Conference and eight from the Western Conference. Teams qualify based on their regular-season performances, with the top eight teams in each conference based on their win-loss records securing a playoff berth. The NBA introduced the Play-In Tournament in the 2020-2021 season to determine the seventh and eighth seeds in each conference. Seeds 7 through 10 in each conference compete in this mini-tournament for the final two spots, adding an extra layer of excitement and opportunity for teams close to the playoff threshold.

Playoff Structure and Format

The NBA Playoffs are