- LeBron James holds NBA records for Christmas appearances (19) and Christmas wins (11) through 2024.
- He has scored more points on Christmas Day (507) than any player in league history.
- In 2025 James will play his 20th Christmas game, with the Lakers hosting the Houston Rockets.
- Standout holiday games include his 2003 rookie breakout, a 2010 triple-double, and clutch 2024 victory over Golden State.
LeBron’s Christmas legacy in brief
LeBron James has become synonymous with the NBA’s Christmas Day showcase. By the end of 2024 he had appeared in 19 holiday games — the most ever — and compiled an 11-8 Christmas record, another NBA record. James has also scored more points on Christmas Day than any other player (507).
Why Christmas matters to LeBron
James has said he would prefer to be at home with family on the holiday, but he recognizes the platform and tradition the day represents. As he noted in a promotional video during his rookie season, playing on Christmas was part of the dream — and he has delivered many times since.
Most memorable Christmas Day performances
2003 — Cleveland at Orlando (Rookie arrival)
As an 18-year-old rookie making his Christmas debut, LeBron scored 34 points and announced himself on the league’s biggest regular-season stage. Though the Cavs lost to Tracy McGrady’s 41-point outing, the game marked the arrival of a future superstar.
2009 — Cavs at Lakers (LeBron vs. Kobe)
In a marquee matchup against Kobe Bryant at Staples Center, James dominated with 26 points and nine assists in a 102-87 Cleveland victory. The game was a high-profile chapter in the LeBron-Kobe era rivalry.
2010 — Heat at Lakers (First Christmas triple-double)
Wearing Miami Heat colors for the first holiday game after his move in free agency, James posted his first Christmas triple-double and led the Heat to a 96-80 win. His all-around impact in that game underscored the shift in the league’s balance of power.
2015 — Cavs at Warriors (Finals rematch feel)
Six months after facing Golden State in the NBA Finals, LeBron and the Cavs held a low-scoring, physical game at Oracle Arena. James finished with 25 points and nine rebounds in an 89-83 loss, a preview of another intense chapter in the Warriors-Cavs rivalry.
2020 — Mavericks at Lakers (Era battle with Luka)
Against Luka Dončić, James recorded 22 points and 10 assists as the Lakers won 138-115. The game was pitched as a clash of generations and showed LeBron’s continued supremacy in big moments.
2024 — Warriors at Lakers (Record-setting 19th appearance)
In his 19th Christmas game, James registered 31 points and 10 assists in a 115-113 win over Golden State. The victory, sealed by an Austin Reaves drive, gave LeBron his 11th Christmas win, making him the winningest player in NBA Christmas history.
Looking ahead: 2025 and beyond
LeBron enters the 2025 holiday slate preparing for his 20th Christmas Day game as the Lakers host the Houston Rockets. Even as he chases new milestones, his Christmas résumé already ranks among the most decorated in NBA history.
Watch LeBron’s rookie-era Christmas promo and highlights: LeBron’s Christmas highlights.
Image Referance: https://www.nba.com/news/the-athletic-what-are-lebron-james-most-memorable-christmas-day-performances