If you’re a sports fan, the holiday season can be one of the most exciting times of the year. Not only do you get to spend time with loved ones and enjoy delicious food, but you also get to watch some of the most exciting games of the year. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at sports games on Christmas Day, including the best matchups, the history of sports on Christmas, and what you can expect from this year’s games.
History Of Sports On Christmas Day
For many sports fans, the idea of watching games on Christmas is a long-standing tradition. In fact, sports on Christmas Day can be traced back to the early 1900s, when the first-ever Christmas Day football game was played in the UK. In the US, basketball became the sport of choice for Christmas Day games, with the first NBA Christmas Day game taking place in 1947.
The Best Christmas Day Sports Matchups
Over the years, many iconic sports matchups have taken place on Christmas Day. Here are some of the most memorable games from different sports:
NBA
The NBA is the undisputed king of Christmas Day sports, with multiple games played throughout the day. Some of the most exciting matchups in recent years have included:
- Lakers vs. Celtics: A classic rivalry that always draws a big audience.
- Warriors vs. Cavaliers: A matchup that dominated the NBA for several years and produced some of the most memorable moments in recent history.
- Clippers vs. Lakers: A matchup that pits two of the best teams in the league against each other and always draws a lot of attention.
NFL
Although the NFL doesn’t typically schedule games on Christmas Day, there have been some memorable matchups over the years. Some of the most notable include:
- Dallas Cowboys vs. Miami Dolphins (1993): This game featured an incredible performance from Dallas running back Emmitt Smith, who rushed for 168 yards and two touchdowns.
- Minnesota Vikings vs. New Orleans Saints (2020): This game was played in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and marked the first time the NFL had ever played on Christmas Day.
NHL
The NHL also gets in on the Christmas Day sports action, with some exciting games played each year. Some of the most memorable matchups include:
- Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Washington Capitals (2016): A matchup between two of the best teams in the league featured a dramatic overtime win for Pittsburgh.
- Chicago Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings (2009): This game was played at Wrigley Field and marked the first time an NHL game had ever been played outdoors on Christmas Day.
What to Expect from This Year’s Christmas Day Sports Games
This year’s Christmas Day sports lineup is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory. Here are some of the matchups to look forward to:
NBA
- Nets vs. Lakers: A matchup between two of the best teams in the league and a potential preview of the NBA Finals.
- Warriors vs. Suns: A matchup between two of the most exciting teams in the league and a potential playoff preview.
NFL
- Browns vs. Packers: A matchup between two teams fighting for playoff spots and led by two of the best quarterbacks in the league.
- Colts vs. Cardinals: A matchup between two teams with playoff aspirations and two of the most exciting quarterbacks in the league.
NHL
- Rangers vs. Bruins: A matchup between two historic rivals and two teams fighting for playoff spots in the competitive Eastern Conference.
- Flames vs. Oilers: A matchup between two teams from Western Canada with a long-standing rivalry and some of the most exciting young players in the league.
Conclusion
Sports games on Christmas Day are a long-standing tradition for many sports fans. Whether it’s basketball, football, or hockey, there are always exciting matchups to look forward to on this special day. This year’s lineup is shaping up to be one of the best in recent memory, with some potential playoff previews and classic rivalries on the schedule.
No matter what your favorite sport is, there’s sure to be something to enjoy on Christmas Day. So gather your friends and family, grab some snacks, and settle in for a day of exciting sports action. Happy holidays and enjoy the games!
FAQs
Q. Why are their sports games on Christmas Day?
A. Sports games on Christmas Day have become a long-standing tradition, providing entertainment for sports fans who want to enjoy the games while spending time with their families and loved ones.
Q. What are some of the most memorable Christmas Day sports moments?
A. There have been many memorable moments in Christmas Day sports history, including Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game in 2005, Emmitt Smith’s incredible performance in the 1993 Cowboys-Dolphins game, and the first-ever NBA game played on Christmas Day in 1947.
Q. Which sports have the most games on Christmas Day?
A. basketball is by far the sport with the most games on Christmas Day, with multiple NBA matchups played throughout the day. Football and hockey also have some games scheduled on Christmas Day, but not as many as basketball.
Q. Are Christmas Day sports games always played in the US?
A. No, Christmas Day sports games are played all over the world, with many countries hosting their own games and tournaments on this special day.
Q. Can I watch Christmas Day sports games online?
A. Yes, many Christmas Day sports games are broadcast live on TV and can also be streamed online through various sports networks and streaming platforms.