My employer gave me basketball tickets as a bonus, but I prefer cash. Can I ask for that instead?

Short Answer: Yes, you can ask, but your employer is not obligated to exchange the cash gift.

Full Answer: You can politely inform your employer of your preference for a cash bonus over tickets. However, employers have the right to choose the form of bonuses or rewards, and they are not required to substitute non-cash gifts for cash if company policy does not allow it.
Respectfully expressing your preference may lead to a positive outcome, but be prepared for potential rejection.
It is important to remember that Employers can give employees non-cash gifts of nominal value - usually < $25 - without incurring any tax issues. All cash gifts, bonuses, non-cash gifts, and rewards valued over $25 are treated as wages for tax purposes.

General Federal Standard: Employers can provide bonuses in various forms, and there is no federal requirement to offer cash alternatives unless specified in a contract or policy.