The NBA’s Christmas Day games have always been one of the league’s most anticipated traditions, with five high-profile games featuring star players. This year’s games include a primetime showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors. Although LeBron James, a regular participant in Christmas Day games, is excited about the matchup. However, he’s upset about something missing from the holiday festivities.
James, who will be playing in his 19th Christmas game, is no stranger to the significance of this day. Over his 18 previous Christmas appearances, James has averaged 26.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 1.5 steals, with a 10-8 record, the most Christmas wins by any player. However, as the Lakers prepare to take on the Warriors, James voiced his disappointment over the absence of the Christmas jerseys, a tradition that started in 2012.
James, who will be playing in his 19th Christmas game, is no stranger to the significance of this day. Over his 18 previous Christmas appearances, James has averaged 26.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 1.5 steals, with a 10-8 record, the most Christmas wins by any player. However, as the Lakers prepare to take on the Warriors, James voiced his disappointment over the absence of the Christmas jerseys, a tradition that started in 2012.
LeBron shared his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Not having Xmas day unis anymore really sucks! That was a great feeling walking into the locker room and seeing those. It was literally like receiving a present! Whomp whomp!”
Not having Xmas day unis anymore really sucks! That was a great feeling walking into the locker room and seeing those. It was literally like receiving a 🎁! Whomp whomp! 🤷🏾♂️
— LeBron James (@KingJames) December 25, 2024
James, who will be playing in his 19th Christmas game, is no stranger to the significance of this day. Over his 18 previous Christmas appearances, James has averaged 26.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 1.5 steals, with a 10-8 record, the most Christmas wins by any player. However, as the Lakers prepare to take on the Warriors, James voiced his disappointment over the absence of the Christmas jerseys, a tradition that started in 2012.
Adidas introduced the Christmas Day uniforms, a hit with players and fans. These festive designs, featuring themes like snowflakes and holiday cards, became iconic, adding a touch of excitement to the season’s most-watched games. However, after Nike took over as the NBA’s official uniform provider in 2017, they discontinued the jerseys, much to the frustration of many, including LeBron.
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How NBA Christmas Jerseys Changed From Adidas To Nike
The NBA’s Christmas Day uniforms became a major part of the tradition during the Adidas era, running from 2012 to 2016. The designs reflected a holiday theme each year, making the games stand out. The jerseys were often a symbol of the honor of playing on Christmas, a day that saw some of the most-watched games of the season.
Nike took over the uniform contract in 2017 and quickly shifted away from the special Christmas jerseys. Instead, Nike has introduced several jersey collections, but none specifically designed for Christmas. While Nike continues to focus on regular jerseys like the Association, Icon, and Statement editions, many fans feel that their jerseys have lost the Christmas spirit.
With the NBA facing challenges like declining viewership and a shift in fan interest, LeBron’s callout might be the push needed to bring back the Christmas uniforms. It’s uncertain whether Nike and the league will act, but LeBron’s influence as a superstar and Nike ambassador might just be enough.
Also Read: Eye-Opening LeBron James Stats On Christmas Day Prove His Enduring Greatness That’ll Blow Your Minds
