Celebrate Christmas with NBA: A Tradition Continues in 2025

The NBA’s Christmas Day games have become a beloved tradition, akin to unwrapping gifts under the tree. This year marks the 78th edition of this festive event, with five exciting games scheduled for December 25, 2025. The action unfolds with a noon tipoff and spans over 13 consecutive hours on ABC and ESPN, showcasing four of the last six NBA champions: the Lakers, Warriors, Nuggets, and Thunder. Let’s take a closer look at the lineup, the history of NBA Christmas games, and how you can enjoy the action with family and friends.

NBA Christmas Day 2025 Schedule

This year’s Christmas Day broadcast features a thrilling lineup of matchups, ensuring there’s something for every basketball fan. The games begin with the Cleveland Cavaliers vs. New York Knicks, kicking off at Noon ET on ABC and ESPN. Following that, the San Antonio Spurs will face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder at 2:30 PM. The excitement continues with the Dallas Mavericks taking on the Golden State Warriors at 5 PM, followed by the Houston Rockets visiting the Los Angeles Lakers at 8 PM. Finally, the night wraps up with the Minnesota Timberwolves squaring off against the Denver Nuggets at 10:30 PM. With games spread throughout the day, fans can enjoy this spectacle from the comfort of their homes.

The History of NBA Christmas Day Games

The tradition of playing on Christmas Day dates back to the NBA’s second season in 1947. Over the decades, this event has grown in popularity, attracting millions of viewers each year. Notably, the New York Knicks hold the record for the most Christmas Day games played, with an impressive 57 appearances. They are tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most victories on this special day, each team claiming 25 wins. Christmas Day games have provided unforgettable moments and thrilling matches, deepening the connection between basketball and the holiday spirit.

Notable Players and Records on Christmas

Christmas Day has seen legendary performances from numerous NBA stars. Among them, LeBron James stands out with the most points—507 across 19 games. James also holds the record for the most Christmas Day victories at 11, surpassing former teammate Dwyane Wade. Other notable players with multiple Christmas Day starts include Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant. The high-scoring games have produced stunning milestones; for instance, Bernard King’s incredible 60 points in 1984 remains a highlight in the league’s history.

Future Broadcasts and Viewing Opportunities

As Christmas games continue to charm audiences, the NBA is expanding its reach by partnering with NBC and Peacock for the upcoming season. Fans looking for more basketball coverage can catch multiple games through Peacock NBA Monday, which will feature up to three games each week. Coast 2 Coast Tuesday will offer exciting doubleheaders, and Sunday Night Basketball will debut on February 1, 2026. A full schedule of games is available on NBC and Peacock websites, allowing viewers to plan their basketball-filled days.

How to Watch the NBA This Holiday Season

Watching the NBA on Christmas Day is easier than ever. Fans can tune in via ABC and ESPN, ensuring they don’t miss any of the action. For those who prefer streaming, sign up for Peacock, where you can enjoy live sports, documentaries, and classic NBA games. The platform is compatible with a variety of devices, making it accessible for everyone. So, gather your family, prepare your holiday feast, and get ready for a day filled with thrilling basketball matchups and unforgettable moments.

Conclusion

The NBA Christmas Day games provide an annual opportunity for fans to come together and celebrate the spirit of the holiday while enjoying top-tier basketball. With a lineup that features several championship teams and star players, the 2025 Christmas slate is set to be more thrilling than ever. Whether you watch with loved ones or catch the games solo, the excitement of the NBA on Christmas Day is a tradition that’s sure to continue for years to come. Get ready to unwrap the gift of basketball this holiday season!