The National Basketball Association (NBA) is set to honour Martin Luther King Jr. Day with an action-packed schedule of thrilling basketball games. As part of its annual tradition, the league will celebrate the profound legacy of Dr. King with a series of competitive matchups featuring top teams and star players. This year’s festivities promise an exciting day of nonstop basketball, beginning with early afternoon games and extending into prime-time showdowns. For fans eager to catch all the action, several free streaming options will be available. Here’s a look at everything you need to know about this year’s NBA MLK Day celebration.
A tradition of honouring Dr. King’s legacy
This year marks the 39th edition of the NBA’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration. For nearly four decades, the league has dedicated this day to honouring both the history of the NBA and Dr. King’s lasting impact on society.
The NBA’s connection to the civil rights movement is deeply rooted, with significant moments such as Bill Russell marching alongside Dr. King and Oscar Robertson organizing a tribute game following King’s tragic assassination.
As the NBA continues this important tradition, the 2025 MLK Day lineup is poised to deliver an unforgettable day of basketball.
The Memphis Grizzlies’ special MLK day game
The Memphis Grizzlies will once again host their annual MLK Day game, marking the 23rd consecutive year they have done so. Memphis, the city where Dr. King was tragically assassinated in 1968 at the Lorraine Motel, remains a powerful site of reflection and remembrance.
In addition to the basketball game, the Grizzlies will hold special events to honour Dr. King’s commitment to equality and justice. This longstanding tradition is a central part of the NBA’s MLK Day celebrations, bringing together fans, players, and the community for a meaningful tribute.
Full 2025 MLK day NBA schedule
The 2025 MLK Day schedule will feature eight exciting matchups:
Date, Start Time: Monday, Jan. 20 at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT
Mavs vs. Hornets — 12:00 p.m. ET, NBA TV
Pistons vs. Rockets — 2:00 p.m. ET, League Pass
Wolves vs. Grizzlies — 2:30 p.m. ET, TNT
Hawks vs. Knicks — 3:00 p.m. ET, League Pass
Suns vs. Cavs — 3:30 p.m. ET, League Pass
Celtics vs. Warriors — 5:00 p.m. ET, TNT
Jazz vs. Pelicans — 8:00 p.m. ET, League Pass
Bulls vs. Clippers — 10:30 p.m. ET, League Pass
How to watch the NBA on MLK day 2025
Fans can catch all the action on TNT, NBA TV, and NBA League Pass. Additionally, several streaming platforms, including DirecTV Stream, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, Max, and NBA League Pass, provide access to these channels. Whether you’re following your favourite players or watching the best teams in action, the NBA on MLK Day offers a day of thrilling basketball entertainment.
This year’s NBA MLK Day celebration not only offers thrilling matchups but also serves as an important occasion to reflect on the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality that Dr. King championed. With numerous games scheduled across the day, it’s a perfect opportunity for basketball fans to honour his legacy while enjoying the sport they love.