Each year, the NBA celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a series of thrilling matchups that honor Dr. King’s legacy of unity, equality, and progress. The 2025 MLK Day Games are no exception, promising an exciting lineup that blends competition with reflection on social justice and community impact.
Basketball fans are in for a treat this MLK Day as the NBA rolls out a full slate of games. Here is the official schedule for January 20, 2025:
1:00 PM ET: Atlanta Hawks vs. Miami Heat
Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, Georgia
The Hawks host the Heat in a game steeped in significance, as Atlanta is Dr. King’s birthplace. This matchup promises fierce competition between two Eastern Conference contenders.
3:30 PM ET: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Location: FedExForum, Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, a city central to Dr. King’s story, welcomes LeBron James and the Lakers in a game sure to draw millions of viewers.
6:00 PM ET: Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Location: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts
A classic rivalry takes center stage as the Celtics and 76ers battle for Eastern Conference supremacy.
8:30 PM ET: Golden State Warriors vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Location: Chase Center, San Francisco, California
The day concludes with a showdown between two championship-caliber teams, showcasing Stephen Curry’s sharpshooting against Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance.
Throughout the day, special tributes to Dr. King will take place at each venue. These include live performances, speeches by community leaders, and video presentations highlighting Dr. King’s enduring influence. Fans attending the games can also participate in service projects and community events organized by the NBA.
For those unable to attend in person, there are plenty of options to catch the action live:
Television: ESPN and TNT will broadcast all games, providing expert commentary and in-depth analysis.
Streaming Platforms: Games will be available on NBA League Pass, ESPN+, and TNT’s official app, allowing fans to stream from anywhere.
Local Channels: Check your local listings for region-specific broadcasts.
The NBA’s celebration of MLK Day goes beyond basketball. It’s a platform to promote social justice, diversity, and inclusion. Players, coaches, and teams use this day to speak out on important issues and give back to their communities.
In 2025, the league continues this tradition by partnering with local organizations to host events such as youth basketball clinics, mentorship programs, and community dialogues on equality.
Many players view MLK Day as an opportunity to reflect on their roles as athletes and influencers. "Dr. King’s work inspires us to use our platforms for good," says Stephen Curry. Similarly, LeBron James has emphasized the importance of honoring Dr. King’s legacy both on and off the court.
The 2025 NBA MLK Day Games promise to be a memorable occasion filled with high-stakes basketball and meaningful tributes to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Whether you’re tuning in for the games, the messages, or both, this is a day that celebrates the power of unity and the enduring legacy of a true visionary.
Make sure to mark your calendar and join millions of fans worldwide in celebrating this special event. Together, we honor Dr. King’s dream through the unifying power of sports.