NBL Doubles Down on Christmas Day

After the incredible success of last year’s historic Christmas game, the Hungry Jack's NBL has doubled down with four teams set to play on December 25.

The Tasmania JackJumpers will host their first Christmas game when they play the South East Melbourne Phoenix at what promises to be a sold-out MyState Bank Arena in Hobart at 5:30pm AEDT.

Then the back-to-back champion Kings will invite their Freeway Series rivals, the Illawarra Hawks, to Christmas dinner at Qudos Bank Arena at 7:30pm AEDT.

“After the incredible response we had last year it was important for us to schedule a huge Christmas double-header this season,” NBL Executive Director and Owner Larry Kestelman said.

“Last season’s game between Sydney and Melbourne United was watched by more than 300,000 people and was one of the most popular programs on the day. It not only delivered a fantastic in-stadium atmosphere and experience, but was also a must-watch TV event.”

Kestelman believes the NBL is fast establishing a new Christmas tradition in Australia and New Zealand.

“Sports fans everywhere told us they want NBL on Christmas and having listened, we acted,” Kestelman said.

“We were the first professional sport to play a game on Christmas and as our League continues to grow, we want to keep breaking new ground and innovating. NBL on Christmas is now set to become a marquee fixture on the Australian sporting calendar, much like the NBA’s Christmas games are in America.

“This year’s Christmas double-header will be even bigger and we are confident both the Kings and JackJumpers will put on a wonderful, family-friendly day of world class sport and entertainment.”

JackJumpers' Co-CEO Christine Finnegan says the club can't wait to host the Christmas fixture.

“We’re delighted to host such an occasion and bring our broader community together for a momentous celebration,” Finnegan said.

“We think the 5.30pm timeslot is perfect for the Tasmanian market, it gives people time to spend time with family and friends during the day and then enjoy a new tradition in the evening.

“Christmas Day is different for everyone, some people don’t have a lot of family around, others will come to the game with their loved ones or watch it on broadcast together. We’re very excited to bring the JackJumpers family together at such a special time.”

Kings' Co-Owner and Chairman Paul Smith is expecting a big demand for the club's second straight Christmas game.

"After the Kings' Christmas night success during the 2022-23 season, we are excited to return with a Christmas version of The Freeway Series in NBL24, and a win over the Hawks will be the perfect way to celebrate," Smith said.

"Christmas night hoops is now a key event in the Sydney Kings' schedule and a series of promotions are planned all through December, to build anticipation for the game.

"We will continue to focus on giving throughout these promotions and Christmas night itself.

"Heavy demand for ticketing is expected, particularly in the lower bowl area, as a lot of purchasers are families and groups of friends."

In an added festive bonus for NBL fans, basketball will return on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.

The Adelaide 36ers and Brisbane Bullets will clash at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Christmas Eve at 2pm AEDT in a mouth-watering match-up.

On Boxing Day, Perth signing Keanu Pinder will make his return to Cairns when the Wildcats face the Taipans at the Cairns Convention Centre at 7:30pm AEDT.

The full 2023/24 Hungry Jack’s NBL season schedule will be released on Thursday, April 20.