As families gather around the Christmas tree to exchange gifts and share quality time, another cherished tradition captivates millions worldwide: the NBA’s annual slate of holiday hoops. From its humble beginnings in 1947 to today’s star-studded global spectacle, the NBA on Christmas Day has become an integral part of the festive celebration.
The Birth of a Basketball Tradition
The NBA first tipped off on Christmas Day in 1947, just one year after the league’s founding. In that inaugural holiday contest, the New York Knicks defeated the Providence Steamrollers 89-75 at the famed Madison Square Garden. Little did they know, this game would lay the foundation for a tradition that would span generations.
Knicks Lead the Pack
The Knicks, fittingly featured in that first Christmas Day game, have gone on to play the most holiday games with 54 appearances. They also share the record for most Christmas Day victories with the Los Angeles Lakers at 23 apiece, cementing their status as the NBA’s preeminent holiday hosts.
Miami’s Christmas Dominance
In more recent years, the Miami Heat have established a Christmas Day dynasty. The Heat boast the highest winning percentage on the holiday at a scorching .857 (12-2) among teams with at least 10 appearances. Under the guidance of head coach Erik Spoelstra, the Heat have been simply unbeatable, going a perfect 9-0 on his watch.
The King of Christmas
No discussion of the NBA on Christmas Day would be complete without mentioning LeBron James. The four-time MVP and NBA champion has left an indelible mark on the holiday hardwood. James is the all-time leader in Christmas Day games played (16), points scored (422), and shares the record for most wins on the holiday with fellow Heat legend Dwyane Wade at 10 apiece.
Playing on Christmas is always special. I dreamed of this growing up, so to be able to live out that dream year after year is truly a blessing.
– LeBron James
Christmas Scoring Records
While James may own many Christmas records, the single-game scoring mark belongs to NBA legend Bernard King. King scorched the nets for a holiday-high 60 points for the Knicks in a losing effort against the Nets in 1984. More recently, Luka Doncic etched his name into Christmas lore with a 50-point outburst versus the Suns in 2023.
- Bernard King – 60 points (1984)
- Wilt Chamberlain – 59 points (1961)
- Luka Doncic – 50 points (2023)
- Rick Barry – 50 points (1966)
2024 Christmas Day Slate
As the NBA gears up for another Christmas Day spectacular, fans are in for a treat with five marquee matchups:
- Spurs vs. Knicks: The Knicks continue their Christmas tradition by hosting the upstart Spurs.
- Timberwolves vs. Mavericks: Luka Doncic and the Mavs welcome a talented Timberwolves squad.
- 76ers vs. Celtics: An Eastern Conference showdown between title contenders.
- Lakers vs. Warriors: Stephen Curry and LeBron James renew their holiday rivalry.
- Nuggets vs. Suns: MVP Nikola Jokic leads Denver into Phoenix for a Western Conference clash.
As the NBA’s Christmas Day tradition marches on, fans can expect more unforgettable performances, dramatic finishes, and a festive celebration of the game we love. So gather ’round the TV, unwrap some presents, and bask in the glory of the NBA’s annual holiday hoops extravaganza.
