Sydney Kings to host historic NBL Christmas Day clash

The Sydney Kings will break through one of the last frontiers in Australian sport with the NBL announcing the introduction of a Christmas Day game for the Hungry Jacks 2022-23 season. 

The reigning NBL champions will take on arch rivals Melbourne United at Qudos Bank Arena on Christmas Day night, prime time on Sunday night at 7.15 pm. 

While Christmas Day basketball is very much a tradition in the US, this will be an historic moment for Australian sport. 

Kings Co-owner and Chairman Paul Smith said it was something he and part owner Andrew Bogut had long considered. 

“Andrew and I have been thinking through the potential of a Christmas Day game for well over two years,” Mr Smith said. 

“We have to stand out in Sydney and being the first team in any sport to host on this day helps us do that. 

“This is the last scheduling frontier in sport in Australia. And we’re a society that has changed so much in recent times, traditions aren’t what they used to be.   

“So many have lunch at restaurants and clubs or are out and about on Christmas Day.  And I know I am sick of my family by dinner time so a little hoops distraction in the evening will become a Christmas staple.” 

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The Sydney Kings’s Christmas Day game will be a family celebration and work with a charitable partner to ensure the Christmas tradition of “giving” remains very much in focus. 

Mr Smith acknowledged Christmas can also be a challenging time for some. 

“We are a changing society,” he said. 

“Christmas isn’t a holy event for all of us, and it can be a lonely day for a lot of people.   

“So, to be able to come out to a world class venue in Qudos Bank Arena for a world class game of hoops, or just watching The Sydney Kings at home on TV, it’s a game changer.” 

The game will be broadcast live and free-to-air on Network 10’s 10 Peach channel as well as ESPN.  

“We are thrilled to be bringing such a massive encounter to Christmas Day, particularly given we will be the first professional sport in this country to do so,” NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said. 

 “Sports fans across Australia and New Zealand have been asking for live sport on Christmas and we are excited to bring them world-class basketball and entertainment on what is a very special day for so many. 

 “Christmas Day has become a marquee day on the NBA calendar and we’re confident it will have a similar impact for us and our clubs. 

 “The Kings have been very proactive in wanting to host the first Christmas Day game and we’re confident they’ll do a great job.” 

The full 2022-23 Hungry Jack's NBL schedule will be released on Monday, July 25.

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