How to watch & talking points: Sydney v Illawarra Christmas game

24 Dec 2025

sydney kings

illawarra hawks

The Sydney Kings host NSW rivals Illawarra in the annual Christmas night clash at Qudos Bank Arena.

Sydney Kings v Illawarra Hawks
Thursday, December 25, 8.30pm AEDT
Qudos Bank Arena

How to watch‍

‍Watch the Christmas night game, live on ESPN and 10.

>> How to watch ESPN

Tickets

>> Ticketing information

How to follow & live scores

‍Live scores, stats, breaking news and game highlights are available via the new and improved NBL App.

>> Visit Game Centre | Download the free NBL App now

Talking points

A day fit for a King
The Christmas day game will once again feature one of the oldest and best rivalries in the league.

Forget history, forget the current form of both Sydney and Illawarra, because when these two teams meet, it’s more than just a game.

Emotions will boil over and competitive spirit will never be higher as only one team can retain NSW bragging rights after this game is finished.

Kendric's kingdom
Bryce Cotton may very well be on his way to a sixth MVP, but it won’t be without a late charge from the Kings' superstar point guard.

While Kendric Davis’ numbers may be down on last season, he’s perhaps more damaging than he’s ever been in the purple and gold and the Kings are flying because of it.

Davis has been unstoppable across the last month and has seemingly found the perfect balance between scoring and getting others involved.

What they're saying

Kings star Xavier Cooks on facing the Hawks on Christmas:
“Christmas means different things to different people, and everyone’s traditions are unique.

“By having a Christmas Night game, we can give people another option and help kickstart a new tradition.

“Playing the Hawks makes it even more special given our longstanding rivalry, and being able to settle it on the court is a great way to end the day.”

Hawks guard Will Hickey on playing Kings on December 25:
“Christmas Day sport is already a tradition in so many Aussie homes.

“Knowing families can come together, switch on the TV and share that moment with us makes it really special.”