The National Basketball Association’s (NBA’s) Christmas Day games are a festive tradition. They have given fans some of the most memorable games in league history.
These games have grown in popularity over the years. They often feature the league’s best teams and biggest stars. Easybet will offer you odds and tips for the Christmas Day games in 2024-25.
The Beginning of Christmas Day Games
The first NBA Christmas game was in 1947. The New York Knicks faced the Providence Steamrollers at Madison Square Garden. From then, Christmas games quickly became an annual event, a tradition as most would say.
In the early years, these games focused on local rivalries. Teams from the same region often played against each other.
The 1980s: Star Power Takes Centre Stage
By the 1980s, Christmas games became more than local battles. They showcased the league’s biggest stars. Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were regular features. Their presence drew larger audiences.
Television coverage also grew during this time as networks recognised the games’ appeal to holiday audiences.
The 2000s: A Global Spectacle
The 2000s brought the globalisation of the NBA. Christmas games reflected this shift as International stars like Dirk Nowitzki and Yao Ming took centre stage. They attracted fans from around the world.
The league used the day to highlight marquee matchups. It also presented rivalries like Kobe Bryant vs Shaquille O’Neal that often made headlines.
Recent Years: A Showcase of Talent
Today, Christmas games are a key part of the NBA calendar. They highlight the league’s top talent and emerging stars. The games often feature rematches of NBA Finals which fans eagerly anticipate clashes between title contenders.
LeBron James is the record-holder for Christmas Day game appearances and has featured 18 times on 25 December. His Los Angeles Lakers (28.28) will be in action against the Golden State Warriors (18.70) on Christmas this year US time (the early hours of 26 December in South Africa).
Why Do Christmas Games Matter?
Christmas games are about more than basketball. They bring families and friends together. The games also boost the NBA’s global reach. Millions of fans tune in from across the world.
The tradition keeps evolving, but it remains a special part of the NBA season.
