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Charles Barkley Slams NFL Christmas Games, Defends NBA

12/27/2025

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Summary

Barkley Slams NFL

Charles Barkley criticized the NFL for scheduling Christmas Day games, saying "Christmas is an NBA day" and accusing NFL commissioner Roger Goodell of greed.
He noted the NFL's expansion into Christmas games disrupts the NBA tradition dating back to 1947.
Barkley, along with former NBA players Richard Jefferson and Kendrick Perkins, urged the NFL to respect the NBA's holiday space despite the NFL's ratings leadership.

History

Historical Context

The NBA began its Christmas Day games in 1947, establishing a beloved tradition that has become a hallmark of American sports culture. While these games often attract millions of viewers, the NFL's recent scheduling of Christmas games has intensified competition for holiday ratings, exemplified by the NBA's record-low 1.3 rating in 2023 compared to the NFL's 27 million viewers.

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Barkley Slams NFL

Charles Barkley criticized the NFL for scheduling Christmas Day games, saying "Christmas is an NBA day" and accusing NFL commissioner Roger Goodell of greed.
He noted the NFL's expansion into Christmas games disrupts the NBA tradition dating back to 1947.
Barkley, along with former NBA players Richard Jefferson and Kendrick Perkins, urged the NFL to respect the NBA's holiday space despite the NFL's ratings leadership.

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