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Ranked: The NBA’s Most Memorable Moments on Christmas Day
Christmas Day in the NBA has become synonymous with marquee matchups and unforgettable moments. Since the league began hosting Christmas Day games in 1947, the holiday has served as a stage for legendary performances, iconic duels, and dramatic finishes. From record-breaking feats to emotional comebacks, these games are often a gift to basketball fans worldwide. Here’s a ranking of the NBA’s most memorable moments on Christmas Day.
1. Bernard King’s 60-Point Game (1984)
The 1984 Christmas game saw Bernard King of the New York Knicks deliver one of the greatest scoring performances in NBA history. Despite his team’s 120-114 loss to the New Jersey Nets, King lit up Madison Square Garden with 60 points. His mid-range jumpers, drives to the basket, and sheer willpower made this performance unforgettable. King’s scoring outburst remains the highest individual total ever achieved on Christmas Day.
2. Kobe Bryant vs. Shaquille O’Neal (2004)
The 2004 Christmas Day showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat marked the first meeting between Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal after their acrimonious breakup. The game was highly anticipated, with fans eager to see how the former teammates would fare against each other. In a dramatic overtime thriller, the Heat prevailed 104-102, with Shaq’s new team stealing the spotlight. The tension, intensity, and star power of this game made it one of the most memorable holiday matchups.
3. Tracy McGrady’s Triple-Double (2003)
Tracy McGrady showcased his all-around brilliance on Christmas Day in 2003 when he led the Orlando Magic to a 113-101 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. McGrady recorded a triple-double with 41 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds, dominating the game in every facet. His ability to control the pace and deliver in clutch moments cemented this as one of the holiday’s standout performances.
4. LeBron James’ Debut on Christmas Day (2003)
LeBron James made his Christmas Day debut in his rookie season, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers against Tracy McGrady’s Orlando Magic. Although the Cavs lost 113-101, LeBron’s performance hinted at the greatness to come. He scored 34 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists, captivating fans with his poise and skill at just 18 years old.
5. Draymond Green’s All-Around Performance (2016)
On Christmas Day in 2016, the Golden State Warriors faced the Cleveland Cavaliers in a rematch of the previous year’s NBA Finals. While the Cavaliers won 109-108 in a nail-biter, Draymond Green’s performance stood out. He recorded 16 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks, showcasing his versatility and importance to the Warriors. This game further solidified the rivalry between the two teams.
6. Willis Reed’s Heroics (1970)
Willis Reed led the New York Knicks to a 102-94 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Christmas Day in 1970. Reed, known for his toughness and leadership, scored 31 points and grabbed 21 rebounds, dominating the game on both ends of the floor. His performance encapsulated his Hall of Fame career and left a lasting impression on holiday basketball history.
7. Dwyane Wade’s Game-Winner (2010)
In 2010, the Miami Heat’s Big Three of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh faced the Los Angeles Lakers in a highly anticipated Christmas Day matchup. Wade stole the show with a game-winning layup and an overall stellar performance, finishing with 31 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Heat’s 96-80 victory showcased their dominance and added a new chapter to holiday basketball lore.
8. Kyrie Irving’s Clutch Shot (2016)
Kyrie Irving delivered one of the most memorable moments of his career on Christmas Day in 2016. Facing the Warriors in a Finals rematch, Irving hit a fadeaway jumper with just 3.4 seconds left to give the Cavaliers a dramatic 109-108 victory. His clutch performance reinforced his reputation as one of the NBA’s best shot-makers.
9. Bill Russell’s Dominance (1965)
Bill Russell, the Boston Celtics’ legendary center, dominated the 1965 Christmas game against the Baltimore Bullets. Russell recorded 16 points and an astonishing 34 rebounds, leading the Celtics to a 113-99 victory. His defensive prowess and rebounding ability were on full display, reminding fans of his impact on the game.
10. Kevin Durant’s Christmas Day Brilliance (2018)
In 2018, Kevin Durant led the Warriors to a commanding 127-101 victory over the Lakers. Durant scored 35 points, including several clutch shots, to cement his place as one of the NBA’s top performers on Christmas. His ability to rise to the occasion made this game unforgettable for fans.
Conclusion
The NBA’s Christmas Day games have produced countless iconic moments, with the league’s brightest stars showcasing their talents on a global stage. From Bernard King’s record-breaking performance to Kyrie Irving’s clutch heroics, these moments have become part of basketball lore. Each Christmas Day brings new opportunities for greatness, adding to the rich history of holiday basketball.
