LeBron James Christmas Day: Top Performances & Moments

LeBron James: A Christmas Day Dynasty Continues

LeBron James’ enduring connection to NBA Christmas Day games is unparalleled, and he’s set to extend his record with a 20th appearance on the holiday stage this year when the Los Angeles Lakers host the Houston Rockets. The four-time NBA champion boasts the most Christmas Day appearances and wins – 11 – of any player in league history, and holds the record for total points scored on December 25th with 507. Despite admitting a personal preference for spending the holiday with family, James recognizes the significance of representing the league on this prominent date.

“I would like to be home on the couch with my family all throughout the day,” James recently shared with the press. “But our number is called, so we have to go out and perform … But I mean, it’s the game, it’s the game I love. It’s the game I watched when I was a kid on Christmas Day, watching a lot of the greatest play the game on Christmas. It’s always been an honor to play it.”

Let’s revisit some of the defining moments from James’ illustrious Christmas Day career.

Early Promise: 2003 vs. Orlando Magic

LeBron James’ highly anticipated NBA debut on Christmas Day in 2003 signaled the arrival of a new force in the league. While a then 18-year-old James put up an impressive 34 points for the Cleveland Cavaliers, it was Tracy McGrady who ultimately stole the show with 41 points in the Orlando Magic’s 113-101 victory. This game, however, firmly established James as a rising superstar capable of performing on the biggest stage.

Here’s a look back at that memorable game.

The Rivalry Heats Up: 2009 vs. Kobe Bryant and the Lakers

The 2009 Christmas Day matchup between James and Kobe Bryant captivated fans during a period of intense debate over who reigned supreme in the NBA. Playing at Staples Center, James led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a commanding 102-87 win, showcasing his dominance with 26 points and nine assists. Bryant, despite a strong performance with 35 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, couldn’t prevent the Cavaliers from securing the victory.

The “Heatles” Make a Statement: 2010 vs. the Lakers

After joining the Miami Heat in the offseason, James returned to Los Angeles in 2010 with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, forming the highly touted “Heatles.” In his first Christmas Day appearance with his new team, James delivered a spectacular all-around performance, recording a triple-double with 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a 96-80 win over the defending champion Lakers. This game underscored James’ ability to elevate his team and control the tempo against formidable opponents.

A Finals Rematch: 2015 vs. the Golden State Warriors

Six months after falling to the Golden State Warriors in the 2015 NBA Finals, James and the Cavaliers faced Stephen Curry and the Warriors again on Christmas Day. Despite a valiant effort, the Cavaliers lost 89-83, but the game foreshadowed the epic rematch that would unfold in the following year’s Finals. James finished with 25 points and nine rebounds, while Draymond Green led the Warriors with 22 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists.

Dominance in the Modern Era: 2020 vs. the Dallas Mavericks

The 2020 Christmas Day game between the Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks was billed as a clash between generations, pitting James against rising star Luka Dončić. The Lakers, however, asserted their dominance, securing a resounding 138-115 victory. James contributed 22 points and 10 assists, while Anthony Davis led all scorers with 28 points. This game also marked a milestone for James, as he surpassed Oscar Robertson for second place on the NBA’s all-time Christmas Day scoring list.

A Record-Breaking Victory: 2024 vs. the Golden State Warriors

In his record-setting 19th Christmas Day game, James led the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling 115-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors, sealed by a last-second layup from Austin Reaves. James delivered a virtuoso performance, scoring 31 points and dishing out 10 assists, solidifying his status as the NBA’s all-time leader in Christmas Day wins with 11.

Austin Reaves’ game-winning shot capped off another memorable Christmas Day performance for the Lakers superstar.

LeBron James’ impact on NBA Christmas Day is undeniable. While he acknowledges a desire for quiet family time during the holidays, his commitment to the game and his consistent excellence have made him a defining figure of the NBA’s annual Christmas tradition. It’s a legacy built on thrilling performances, fierce rivalries, and a deep appreciation for the history of the game.

Denny Alfonso is a trending news writer for The Athletic. An Emmy Award–winning New Yorker, Denny previously covered the NBA, MLB, and MLS for ESPN, where she produced and reported the Soccer in America series, earning a Telly Award. She also covered the Rio Olympics for ESPN. Before joining ESPN, Denny worked as an investigative reporter for NBC Telemundo in Los Angeles and has been a contributor to both Yahoo and The Associated Press in New York.