The debate over which sport truly owns Christmas Day has heated up, with Detroit Lions players throwing their weight behind football over basketball. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James reignited the conversation, claiming the holiday has historically been the NBA’s turf. However, record-breaking NFL viewership this year tells a different story.
For decades, Christmas Day basketball has been a staple for fans, with the NBA starting this tradition in 1947. But this year, the NFL’s Christmas games, including the Ravens vs. Texans and Chiefs vs. Steelers, drew a jaw-dropping 65 million U.S. viewers combined. These games are now the most-streamed in NFL history, leaving many to question whether football has stolen the holiday spotlight.
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Lions players back NFL’s Christmas day takeover
Lions defensive end Za’Darius Smith shared his perspective, saying, “Christmas Day is for football. Families come together to watch hard-hitting action-not just dribbling and dunking.” Smith’s opinion echoes a growing sentiment that football is becoming the preferred holiday pastime.
Wide receiver Allen Robinson II, a Detroit native and lifelong NBA fan, acknowledged basketball’s cherished role but admitted that the NFL has the clout to dominate any day. “Football is the number one game in this country,” Robinson stated. “The NFL is just a different beast.”
NBA still holds its ground
Despite the NFL’s success, the NBA also had a record-breaking Christmas Day. Viewership for its holiday games saw an 84% surge compared to last year, averaging 5.2 million viewers per game. The Lakers-Warriors matchup led the pack, attracting 7.76 million viewers.
Lions offensive lineman Graham Glasgow suggested there’s room for both sports. “It’s about giving fans variety. If you want to watch basketball, you can. If you want football, it’s there too,” Glasgow said.
Beyoncé’s halftime show steals the spotlight
Adding to the NFL’s dominance was Beyoncé’s electrifying halftime performance during the Ravens-Texans game. Viewership peaked at 27 million as fans tuned in for the Grammy winner’s show, dubbed the “Beyoncé Bowl.”
Robinson praised the broadcast, highlighting the mix of star-studded games and performances. “You had great teams, Beyoncé at halftime, and solid coverage. It was a win for football fans,” he said.
As the ratings roll in, the question remains: is Christmas Day big enough for both the NFL and NBA, or has the NFL officially taken over the holiday? Fans and players alike will be watching closely next year.
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