Christmas Week has long been one of the most exciting times of the year for NBA fans. Packed with highly anticipated matchups featuring the league’s biggest stars, the holiday season is a showcase for the NBA’s top talent. But it’s not just the games that draw attention—over the years, the league’s creative holiday commercials have become a beloved tradition.
For the 2024-25 season, the NBA has upped the ante by reviving its legendary Jingle Hoops advertisement from 2013, widely regarded as one of the best commercials in the league’s history. This time, the league has put a fresh spin on the fan-favorite ad, blending nostalgia with a new generation of stars.
A New Take on a Classic
In the original Jingle Hoops commercial, players like Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose, and Stephen Curry used basketballs to play a festive Christmas tune by shooting them through nets adorned with bells.
The 2024 version retains the iconic jingle but introduces a whimsical, toy-like aesthetic. Instead of real-life players, animated, action-figure versions of today’s NBA stars take center stage, bringing a playful charm to the commercial.
The ad kicks off with Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum chatting with Phoenix Suns’ Kevin Durant, setting the stage for a festive showcase. The scene quickly expands to reveal Stephen Curry, Luka Don?i?, and LeBron James attempting their signature long-range shots. Just as fans start to enjoy the familiar rhythm of the jingle, a twist shakes things up.
New Faces Take Over
The next segment of the commercial introduces rising stars Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards, and Jalen Brunson. The trio steals the spotlight, culminating in an emphatic dunk by Tatum that punctuates the performance. The commercial also features delightful cameos from ABC’s Mike Breen, who delivers his signature “Bang!” call, and ESPN’s Malika Andrews, who adds a touch of courtside flair.
Other notable appearances include reigning MVP Nikola Joki?, humorously riding a sleigh, and Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey, adding to the star-studded lineup. The mix of established superstars and emerging talent reflects the NBA’s effort to connect the league’s storied past with its exciting future.
A Nostalgic Yet Fresh Experience
The new Jingle Hoops commercial succeeds in recapturing the magic of its predecessor while adding modern touches that appeal to today’s fans. By blending nostalgia with innovation, the ad celebrates the league’s evolution over the past decade while honoring the traditions that make the NBA’s Christmas Week special.
The playful use of toy-like animations also highlights the league’s ability to adapt to changing trends, making the ad a hit with younger audiences while sparking memories for long-time fans. The inclusion of rising stars like Wembanyama and Edwards underscores the NBA’s bright future, while legends like LeBron James and Stephen Curry continue to remind viewers of the league’s enduring greatness.
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A Perfect Prelude to Holiday Hoops
As fans gear up for the slate of marquee Christmas Day matchups, the Jingle Hoops revival serves as a perfect appetizer for the holiday festivities. The NBA’s ability to combine creativity, star power, and a touch of humor makes this year’s commercial a standout addition to its holiday tradition.
Whether it’s seeing Joki? play Santa on a sleigh, enjoying the chemistry between Durant and Tatum, or marveling at the on-court antics of animated superstars, the ad has something for everyone.
It’s a celebration of the NBA’s past, present, and future—a reminder of why the league holds a special place in the hearts of sports fans during the holiday season.
