Lakers Abandon Unplayable NBA Cup Court Amid Safety Concerns
Full Transcript
The Los Angeles Lakers opted to abandon their brightly colored NBA Cup-themed court for the game against the Dallas Mavericks due to safety concerns. According to NBC Los Angeles, technicians from the league's court vendor deemed the alternative court 'unplayable' for the matchup set for Friday, November 28, 2025.
As a result, the game was played on the Lakers' regular home court at Crypto.com Arena. This decision highlights the team's strong commitment to player safety and performance, which was echoed by a league spokesperson who stated, 'Player safety is our top priority.' The irregular surface of the NBA Cup court had already garnered complaints, particularly from Lakers star Luka Doncic, who described it as 'slippery' and 'dangerous' after a previous game against the LA Clippers.
During that game, Doncic experienced multiple slips despite scoring 43 points in a 135-118 victory, a performance that raised concerns among players about the safety of the court. Rui Hachimura also voiced his concerns, stating, 'It just felt weird.
Just like oily, slippery. Everybody was on the floor, literally.' The bright yellow court, which some have humorously referred to as 'school bus yellow,' was originally intended to enhance the excitement of the NBA Cup, but instead became a point of contention among players.
ESPN reported that the NBA Cup court would be sent back to the vendor for repairs and is expected to be ready for future quarterfinal games. This incident not only underscores the importance the Lakers place on the safety of their players but also raises questions about the NBA's marketing strategies surrounding the in-season tournament.
The court's design, aimed at creating a visually striking atmosphere, inadvertently led to multiple players slipping during gameplay, highlighting a disconnect between the league's promotional efforts and the practical realities of player safety on the court.
The Lakers, who had secured a spot in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, are set to host their next game against the San Antonio Spurs on December 10, 2025, when it is anticipated that the reconditioned court will be back in action.
The decision to revert to the standard court for the game against the Mavericks has been viewed positively by fans and analysts alike, who felt the alternative court was more of a distraction than an enhancement to the game experience.
This situation serves as a reminder that while innovation in sports is crucial, player safety and performance must always be prioritized over aesthetic considerations.