NBA Christmas Games 2025: Your Complete Guide to Streaming Every Matchup

Basketball fans get a holiday treat with five NBA games on December 25th. The action starts at noon Eastern Time. The Cleveland Cavaliers face the New York Knicks in the first game.

This annual tradition delivers marquee matchups for a national audience. All games will air on ESPN and ABC. According to ESPN’s schedule, the day concludes with a Western Conference showdown.

How to Watch Every Game Without Cable

You need a live TV streaming service to watch the games. ESPN and ABC are available on several major platforms. Each offers a way to stream the Christmas Day slate.

DirecTV Stream provides access with a five-day free trial. Its most affordable plan starts at $39.99 per month. This plan includes the necessary channels for the basketball marathon.

Fubo is another popular option for sports fans. Its plans start at $55.99 monthly and include a free trial. The service carries both ESPN and local ABC stations in most markets.

Sling TV offers a flexible, low-cost path. A one-day Sling Orange pass costs just $4.99 and includes ESPN. For ABC, viewers may need an antenna depending on their location.

Hulu + Live TV bundles live channels with on-demand content. It costs $89.99 per month after a three-day trial. This package includes ESPN, ABC, and the full Hulu library.

Full Schedule for Christmas Day Basketball

The full day of games offers a coast-to-coast lineup. The schedule is packed with potential playoff previews. Star players will be featured in every time slot.

The first game tips at 12 p.m. ET with Cavaliers at Knicks. At 2:30 p.m. ET, the San Antonio Spurs visit the Oklahoma City Thunder. The 5 p.m. ET game features the Dallas Mavericks at Golden State Warriors.

Primetime brings the Houston Rockets at Los Angeles Lakers at 8 p.m. ET. The nightcap at 10:30 p.m. ET is Minnesota Timberwolves at Denver Nuggets. An “Inside the NBA” special will air at 7:30 p.m. ET between games.

This schedule provides continuous entertainment throughout the holiday. Fans can plan their day around these key matchups. The variety ensures there is something for every basketball enthusiast.

Finding a free trial is the best way to stream the NBA Christmas games at no cost. Set reminders for tip-off times to catch all the action live from the first game to the last.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Can I stream the NBA Christmas games for free?

Yes, you can use a free trial from services like DirecTV Stream or Fubo. These trials typically last between three and five days. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you do not wish to continue.

What channel are the Christmas NBA games on?

Every game will air on either ESPN or ABC. The broadcast schedule alternates between the two networks throughout the day. Check your local listings for the specific channel in your area.

What time does the first Christmas NBA game start?

The first game begins at 12 p.m. Eastern Time. It features the Cleveland Cavaliers playing the New York Knicks. The final game starts at 10:30 p.m. ET.

Which Christmas Day matchup is the most anticipated?

The Lakers versus Rockets game in primetime often draws major interest. The late game between the Nuggets and Timberwolves is also a key conference battle. Both games feature top-tier talent and playoff implications.

Do I need a special package to watch on streaming services?

You need a base package that includes ESPN and, for some services, ABC. The entry-level plans for DirecTV, Fubo, Sling Orange, and Hulu + Live TV all include ESPN. Verify ABC availability in your zip code before signing up.