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NBA Cup Knockout Stage Set: Knicks, Bucks, and Thunder Advance

The group stage of the 2024 NBA Cup has concluded, and the knockout stage bracket is now finalized. The New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, and Oklahoma City Thunder are among the teams that have secured their spots in the next round.

In the Eastern Conference, the Knicks dominated the Orlando Magic with a 121-106 victory, securing the top spot in East Group A. Karl-Anthony Towns led the Knicks with 23 points and 15 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson added 21 points. The Magic, despite the loss, advanced as the East wild-card team due to their points differential over the Boston Celtics[2].

The Milwaukee Bucks also advanced with a convincing 128-107 win over the Detroit Pistons in East Group B. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 28 points and had seven rebounds and eight assists, while Damian Lillard contributed 27 points. The Bucks' victory marked their seventh straight win[2].

In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder won West Group B after defeating the Utah Jazz 133-106. The Thunder's win, combined with the San Antonio Spurs' loss to the Phoenix Suns, solidified their position. The Dallas Mavericks also secured a spot in the knockout stage with a comeback win against the Memphis Grizzlies[1].

Here are the teams advancing to the knockout stage:

- Eastern Conference:
- Group A winner: Knicks
- Group B winner: Bucks
- Group C winner: Hawks
- Wild card: Magic

- Western Conference:
- Group A winner: Rockets
- Group B winner: Thunder
- Group C winner: Warriors
- Wild card: Mavericks

Key performances included:
- Knicks vs. Magic:
- Karl-Anthony Towns: 23 points, 15 rebounds
- Jalen Brunson: 21 points
- Mikal Bridges: 19 points
- Josh Hart: 11 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists[2].

- Bucks vs. Pistons:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo: 28 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists
- Damian Lillard: 27 points[2].

- Thunder vs. Jazz:
- Thunder won 133-106, but specific player stats not detailed[1].

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