The NBA’s Christmas Day Tradition: More Than Just Games

Christmas Day holds a special place in the hearts of NBA players, coaches, and fans alike, marking an essential part of the league’s culture and tradition. For many, it’s not just another game; it’s a chance to celebrate family, showcase talent, and participate in a unique sporting spectacle that draws millions of viewers. Renowned coach Doc Rivers, who has played or coached on Christmas 17 times since 1984, captures the bittersweet essence of this day perfectly: it’s filled with both joy and sacrifice.

The Love-Hate Relationship with Christmas Games

Rivers recounts his mixed emotions about playing on Christmas. “I love it and hate it at the same time,” he explains. Players are torn between the allure of a significant game and the desire to be with their families. While winning on Christmas Day is a gratifying experience, it often means postponing family traditions like opening presents.

For teams playing at home, there’s more flexibility, but the pressure for exceptional performance remains high. For instance, the Golden State Warriors, facing the Dallas Mavericks this year, have made arrangements for family members to join them, making the day feel more festive amidst the competitive atmosphere.

Unique Christmas Day Gifts and Rituals

To try to add a celebratory edge to these games, the NBA gifts players and coaches items like leather wallets or custom bags to mark the occasion. This small gesture attempts to counteract the disappointment of being away from family. Still, as Warriors coach Steve Kerr puts it, waking up in a hotel room on Christmas often leads to a realization of what the day signifies, with a mix of festive spirit and competitiveness hanging in the air.

While the players are deeply immersed in their game day routines, many still strive to maintain their family traditions. LeBron James has shared how challenging it can be for his family to synchronize their Christmas rituals around his schedule, especially given that he’s played 19 times on this holiday. Yet, as he reflects, the game means so much to him—not just for the competition, but for the sheer joy it brings to fans during the holiday season.

Star-Studded Lineup and Family Ties

The tradition of playing on Christmas has become a family affair for players like LeBron and his son Bronny James, who are now making history together. Bronny can’t recall a single Christmas without his father playing, so they’ve adapted to celebrate on different days when LeBron is unavailable. Their family dynamic, the excitement, and the desire to preserve the spirit of Christmas, even amidst the rigors of an NBA schedule, reflect the deep bonds formed through these experiences.

Star players like Stephen Curry have experienced their fair share of ups and downs on Christmas. Reflecting on his early struggles during holiday games, where his shooting was far from stellar, Curry recognizes the honor that comes with competing on such a celebrated day—transforming his Christmas memories as he found his rhythm.

The Stress Behind Glitz and Glamour

For many, including players like Draymond Green, the challenges aren’t just about the game itself. Being away from their families can lead to a sense of guilt and missed opportunities for bonding. Green recounted his experience during a recent suspension, which allowed him to be home for Christmas—a rarity in his career. This contrasted with the typical road game, where family celebrations are often sidelined by the demands of the sport.

Meanwhile, younger players like Josh Hart revel in the excitement of Christmas games, cherishing the magic as they celebrate with their own families and children. Growing up immersed in basketball, he appreciates the unique opportunities offered by Christmas games.

The Legacy of Past Games

The history of Christmas Day NBA games is filled with unforgettable moments, including mishaps that haunt players for years. Steve Kerr’s infamous misstep, where he inadvertently assisted the New York Knicks in a critical moment during a 1994 game, serves as a humorous reminder of the pressure packed into holiday matchups. Despite the blunder, Kerr’s career continued, and he’s since found a place among the coaching elite.

Above all, the shared love for the game, combined with the importance of Christmas, creates a blend of emotions that players and coaches carry with them during this unique day. New stories are crafted each year, adding to the tapestry of tradition that defines Christmas in the NBA.

In this way, Christmas Day transcends mere basketball; it becomes a celebration of family, resilience, and the enduring passion for the sport. Each game offers more than a chance to win; it’s an opportunity to create memories and celebrate what truly matters. The players, the fans, and the spirit of the holiday combine to make this a pivotal day in the NBA calendar—a tradition cherished by all involved.