The 2026 NBA Christmas Day schedule is set: a five-game slate on ABC and ESPN, headlined by a Finals rematch between the Spurs and the champion Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Below are the confirmed matchups and tip times.
Updated August 11, 2026: the NBA has released the official 2026-27 dates. Confirmed games below.
2026 NBA Christmas Day Games
| Time | Matchup | Storyline |
|---|---|---|
| 12:00 PM ET | Spurs at Knicks | 2026 Finals rematch; Victor Wembanyama at the Garden |
| 2:30 PM ET | Heat at Celtics | Giannis Antetokounmpo visits Boston |
| 5:00 PM ET | 76ers at Lakers | LeBron James returns to Los Angeles |
| 8:00 PM ET | Thunder at Timberwolves | West contenders in prime time |
| 10:30 PM ET | Nuggets at Warriors | Nightcap in the Bay |
All five games air on ABC and ESPN. The headliners: Victor Wembanyama and San Antonio get a Christmas Finals rematch, LeBron James returns to face the Lakers and his son, and Giannis Antetokounmpo visits Boston with the Heat.
Opening Night and the Full Schedule
The season tips off first on opening night, October 20. For the full announcement, read our 2026-27 NBA schedule release recap, and grab every team’s slate on the 2026-27 NBA schedule hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 2026 NBA Christmas Day games?
Five games on ABC and ESPN: Spurs at Knicks (12:00 ET), Heat at Celtics (2:30), 76ers at Lakers (5:00), Thunder at Timberwolves (8:00), and Nuggets at Warriors (10:30).
Is there an NBA Finals rematch on Christmas?
Yes. The Spurs visit the champion Knicks at Madison Square Garden in a rematch of the 2026 NBA Finals.
Where can I watch NBA Christmas Day games?
All five 2026 Christmas Day games are on ABC and ESPN.
