THE The NBA unveiled its schedule last week and we now have the blueprint for what the 2024-25 season will look like for the Phoenix Suns.
It’s not something we’re really excited about. You play the same teams the same number of times each year. The Eastern Conference teams visit Phoenix once, the Suns visit once. It’s always the same. There are a few hiccups here and there, whether it’s a baseball-style playoff schedule or back-to-back games at inopportune times.
While I always look forward to seeing the schedule revealed, mostly because I’m bored and it’s August, once we’ve discussed it, we move on. This year is no exception, but I will voice one complaint: How did the Suns get screwed on Christmas Day?
Christmas Day is a great day for the NBA, and it usually owns it. But this season, it will once again be competing with the NFL, as American football slowly tries to take over a day filled with joyful viewers. Still, the league has five games for us to watch.
The only downside? The Suns play at 8:30 PM against the Denver Nuggets. I know this is where my Phoenix-based bias comes into play. I know there are Suns fans all over the world who do whatever they can to watch the team, even if it means getting up at 5 AM to do so. I get it. I’m spoiled.
But come on man. 8:30pm?! It’s like waiting for a pot of water to boil. Slow, painful and way too late when you’re trying to enjoy your vacation.
Don’t get me wrong. This is a good thing for the Suns players. They’ll be home, able to enjoy the morning with their kids and take in the magic of the holidays without the rush. Knowing they won’t have to show up at the arena until later in the day gives them the opportunity to truly be present, to savor these moments like unwrapping a long-awaited gift. It’s a rare luxury in their busy lives, and I truly appreciate that they get to experience it.
But why can’t we get an earlier time slot? You know, for us old folks who want to enjoy our Suns at a reasonable hour on Christmas Day. It’s like the league forgot that not everyone has the energy to stay up late after a full day of holiday festivities… especially if I want beers or brandy. We’d like to watch the game without feeling like we’re wading through mud just to stay awake. Is that too much to ask? A little consideration for early risers who still want to cheer on their team without working until dark?!
Ok. End of rant. Merry Christmas. Go Suns.
