The 2024 NBA Christmas Day festivities showcased thrilling matchups and significant player updates, highlighting the league’s tradition of celebrating basketball on one of the most festive days of the year. This year's Christmas quintupleheader featured prominent players, including veteran LeBron James and rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, as they faced off against powerhouse teams.
Among the noteworthy updates leading up to the games, Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson were both listed as probable to play for the Denver Nuggets during their matchup against the Phoenix Suns, according to Vinny Benedetto. Meanwhile, Golden State's Stephen Curry was also marked probable, but fellow Warriors star Draymond Green was listed as questionable, raising eyebrows among fans eager to see how these players might impact the game.
Jovan Buha reported the intense showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors ended with the Lakers edging out the Warriors 115-113, thanks to Austin Reaves’ layup. Reaves, who recorded his first triple-double of the season with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, emerged as the game’s key performer. LeBron James contributed significantly with 31 points and 10 assists, leading the Lakers to improve to 17-13. Notably, the team managed to persevere without Anthony Davis, who missed the final 41 minutes of the game.
James, 39, relished the opportunity to once again face Curry on this grand stage. “Any time you get the opportunity to be on the court and compete against one of the greatest to ever play this game, you don't take it for granted,” James remarked, emphasizing the rarity and significance of their matchups.
On the east coast, the Christmas Day nail-biter between the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics promised great intensity, calling back memories of their longstanding rivalry. This matchup is historically significant as it marks the 14th time the two teams have squared off on Christmas, the highest frequency between any two teams on this holiday. Celtics guard Jrue Holiday expressed mixed feelings about playing on Christmas: “It’s tough to interrupt family time on Christmas—but it’s fun for my children to see their dad play.”
Another intriguing matchup was between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Dallas Mavericks, now seen as the return of the previous Western Conference finals, during which the Mavericks triumphed last year. Luka Doncic’s excitement shone through when he remarked on the special timing of the game, catering to eager fans from Europe who tune in from afar. “It’s special,” said Doncic, who previously scored 50 points on Christmas Day. “A lot of people from Europe want to watch the NBA.”
New York City was all abuzz as Wembanyama played his first Christmas game against the Knicks, marking his debut on this festive occasion. He expressed his excitement about playing on such a legendary stage: “Spending Christmas in New York, it's going to be like the movies, I hope. Get a little snow.” The holiday spirit was certainly present, as light snow sprinkled down on Manhattan earlier on game day, adding to the atmospherics of the occasion.
Wembanyama’s stats this season are stunning, averaging 24.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, 4.0 blocks, and 3.9 assists per game. Knicks forward Josh Hart commented on the potential impact Wembanyama could have on the league: “He does things offensively and defensively no one at his height should be doing. He’s the future.”
The night concluded with the Nuggets facing off against the Suns, with the Nuggets fresh from their previous 117-90 victory over Phoenix. Michael Porter Jr. noted the heightened intensity of holiday games, indicating the players’ eagerness to deliver their best performance: “Looking forward to this next game. But I’m sure it’ll be tougher.”
Overall, NBA Christmas traditions continue to thrill fans year after year, bringing together players from all backgrounds as they compete at the highest level. These annual games not only serve as showcases for star athletes but also draw immense viewership from fans who tune in during holiday gatherings, marking the start of winter basketball excitement as families enjoy festive feasts with the games serving as background entertainment.
With each passing season, the Christmas games encapsulate the spirit of basketball and community, offering fans the chance to share unforgettable moments through the lens of their favorite basketball stars. These games resonate across generations, standing as reminders of the joy basketball brings during the holiday season.
