The ongoing debate about which sport owns Christmas Day took an intriguing twist when NBA icon LeBron James boldly claimed the holiday for basketball.

While acknowledging his respect for the NFL, James declared that Christmas belongs to the NBA.

“I love the NFL, but Christmas is our day,” he said, sparking a lively discussion about holiday sports traditions.

Detroit Lions Players Push Back on LeBron’s Statement

Members of the Detroit Lions didn’t hold back in their disagreement with James’ assertion.

Defensive end Za’Darius Smith was among the first to defend football’s presence on Christmas, highlighting the holiday’s appeal for fans of the NFL’s physicality.

“Christmas Day is for football, no doubt,” Smith stated. “Families come together to watch some hard-hitting, action-packed football.

I don’t think they’re looking to watch people dribble or dunk. They want to see the hits, and I think football belongs on Christmas Day.”

Lions wide receiver Allen Robinson also voiced his opinion, emphasizing the NFL’s unparalleled popularity in America.

According to Robinson, football has the power to take over any day of the year. “In this country, football is king,” Robinson explained.

“The NFL is the number one sport, and it dominates the ratings, especially in the fall and winter.

That’s no knock on the NBA; I love basketball and watch it all the time. But the NFL is just a different beast, and Christmas is no exception.”

The Battle for Christmas Day Continues

As both leagues vie for attention during the holiday season, it’s evident that neither plans to back down from the fight for viewership dominance.

For Detroit Lions players, though, Christmas Day is synonymous with the grit and intensity of football.

The tradition of holiday football resonates deeply with fans and players alike, offering a unique way for families to come together and enjoy the game.

While the NBA has long held a strong presence on Christmas, the NFL’s growing stake in the holiday showcases its expanding appeal.

Ultimately, the ongoing rivalry between the NFL and NBA over Christmas highlights the passion and cultural significance both sports hold.

Yet for the Lions, Christmas is about hard-nosed football, and they’re ready to ensure that tradition lives on.