LeBron James Drops a Bold Statement Targeting the NFL After Lakers-Warriors Showdown

The Los Angeles Lakers edged past the Golden State Warriors in a nail-biting 115-113 victory on Christmas Day, but the evening wasn’t solely about the score. LeBron James, the Lakers’ star and a passionate NFL fan, seized the moment to make a powerful statement about the NBA’s holiday tradition.

“I love the NFL, but Christmas is our day,” James declared during an interview with ABC’s broadcast team, as highlighted by Celtics Muse on X. His remarks underscored the NBA’s historic claim to the holiday spotlight, reinforcing the league’s enduring connection with basketball fans worldwide.

The NBA’s Christmas Tradition: A Legacy of Drama and Entertainment

The NBA’s deep-rooted tradition of Christmas Day games stretches back to 1947, the league’s second season. Since then, the holiday has become synonymous with thrilling matchups, star performances, and unforgettable moments on the court.

This year’s slate of NBA games was no exception. The Lakers’ victory, capped by Austin Reaves’ game-winning layup, epitomized the holiday drama. Reaves’ clutch moment came just seconds after Steph Curry sank a crucial three-pointer, highlighting the intensity and unpredictability fans have come to expect from these matchups.

Beyond the Lakers-Warriors showdown, other Christmas Day games delivered similarly exciting finishes. The New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Philadelphia 76ers all triumphed in tightly contested battles, further cementing the NBA’s reputation for high-stakes entertainment during the holiday season.

The NFL’s Growing Presence on Christmas Day

While the NBA has long dominated Christmas, the NFL has increasingly encroached on this space in recent years. Historically, the NFL only occasionally scheduled games on December 25. However, over the past five years, the league has made a concerted effort to expand its Christmas Day offerings, leveraging its massive fan base to capture more holiday viewership.

This year, the NFL hosted two Christmas games, both of which ended in blowouts but still drew significant ratings. Despite the league’s popularity, its holiday matchups lacked the close finishes and dramatic flair that characterized the NBA’s contests.

LeBron’s Statement: A Call to Celebrate NBA’s Christmas Legacy

LeBron James’ bold statement wasn’t just a casual remark—it was a rallying cry for basketball fans to recognize and celebrate the NBA’s unique place in Christmas Day traditions. For decades, the league has provided fans with holiday entertainment marked by intense competition, star-studded lineups, and moments that resonate long after the final buzzer.

The Lakers-Warriors game served as a prime example of why the NBA holds a special place on Christmas. LeBron himself contributed 28 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, showcasing his enduring ability to shine on the biggest stages. Meanwhile, Austin Reaves’ decisive play underscored the team effort that defines basketball at its best.

Why Christmas Belongs to the NBA

The NBA’s Christmas Day games aren’t just about basketball—they’re about tradition, community, and shared experiences. Families gather to watch their favorite teams, fans debate standout performances, and players rise to the occasion under the national spotlight.

While the NFL may continue to schedule games on Christmas, the NBA’s unique brand of holiday drama remains unmatched. From iconic matchups in the past to present-day classics, the league has consistently delivered moments that transcend the sport itself.

LeBron’s message serves as a reminder that the NBA’s Christmas Day legacy is more than a scheduling quirk—it’s a cornerstone of the league’s identity.

The Lakers’ thrilling win over the Warriors, coupled with LeBron James’ confident declaration, highlights the NBA’s deep connection to Christmas Day. While the NFL may compete for holiday viewership, the NBA continues to offer the kind of excitement, emotion, and tradition that basketball fans cherish.

As the league looks ahead, moments like this year’s Christmas matchups reaffirm its position as the go-to source of holiday sports entertainment. With stars like LeBron leading the way, the NBA’s claim to Christmas remains as strong as ever.