Kings to host Hawks in annual Christmas night blockbuster

On the back of the raging success of the first-ever Christmas night game in NBL23, the Sydney Kings will once again host a match at Qudos Bank Arena on December 25.

The inaugural Christmas night fixture was played in front of more than 7,000 fans at Qudos Bank Arena and delivered a viewership reach of more than 300,000 people across all platforms on ESPN, Kayo Sports and Channel 10 - highlighting the success of the historic game.

Unlike last season, where the Kings took on arch-rivals Melbourne United, the two-time reigning champions will take on NSW rivals Illawarra on Christmas - in one of four match-ups between the two outfits in NBL24.

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"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," Kings co-owner and chairman Paul 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."

Check out the NBL's mini-movie of our NBL23 championship above, via our Sydney Kings' YouTube channel. While you're there, be sure to hit subscribe, to ensure you never miss out on any of our great videos.

This marquee blockbuster, which will tip-off at 7.30pm AEDT, is one of two games that will take place on Christmas, with the Tasmania JackJumpers hosting the South East Melbourne Phoenix earlier in the day (at 5.30pm).

“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.

“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.” 

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A number of the Hoops Capital side's other key fixtures of the NBL24 schedule will be announced in the coming days ahead of all the Kings' 28 games being unveiled on Thursday, April 20.

Keep an eye on the Kings' website and social channels for more NBL24 schedule announcements over the coming days.