

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is poised to add a distinct chapter to his career achievements by becoming the first reigning Kia NBA MVP and Finals MVP to take to the court on Christmas Day since LeBron James in 2013. This anticipated matchup will mark a notable moment for both Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder as they host the San Antonio Spurs, a game that will simultaneously reignite memories of LeBron's storied era with the Miami Heat and spotlight the Thunder's recent ascendancy as a dominant force in the NBA. The comparison invites fans and analysts alike to consider the rarefied air these players occupy. When LeBron suited up for the Heat on Christmas in 2013, it was within a context of a team that had achieved back-to-back NBA Championships, a pinnacle moment for the franchise and a personal highlight reel filled with athleticism and leadership. Similarly, Gilgeous-Alexander, at the age of 27, rides the wave of an MVP season that culminated in Oklahoma City's first championship win since the franchise's relocation, echoing the Heat’s pinnacle during LeBron’s tenure. This season, the spotlight continues to shine on Gilgeous-Alexander as he leads his team with career-high achievements: maintaining an average of 32.5 points, a career-high 6.6 assists, and 4.8 rebounds, alongside career-best shooting percentages. His prowess has kept Oklahoma City competitive, despite their recent rocky stretch with a few unexpected losses, including two setbacks against the Spurs. As the Thunder prepare to defend their home court on Christmas Day, this game becomes more than a showcase—it represents a bridging of past and present greatness between LeBron and Gilgeous-Alexander. Fans can tune in to watch this legacy unfold on ABC and ESPN at 2:30 PM ET, offering both a festive sporting spectacle and a moment in basketball history, uniting MVPs across generations through their brilliance and championship sparks.