Why are there no NBA games on Nov. 27, 2027? Exploring Curious Calendar Mystery Behind No-Game Day

The NBA treated fans to nine thrilling Emirates Cup games on Wednesday. Five of those matchups were decided by four points or fewer or pushed into overtime, keeping viewers glued to their screens all game long. But that excitement will take a pause on Thursday, because there are no NBA games scheduled for November 27.

Many fans might be wondering why the league is taking a breather. The simple answer is Thanksgiving Day.

For the past 15 years, the NBA has made Thanksgiving a quiet day on the schedule. Football dominates the holiday across the United States, especially with the NFL pulling in massive viewership. Instead of trying to compete, the NBA avoids indulging in the ratings battle and lets fans enjoy their holiday traditions.

However, the action will return right away. The league has lined up a busy Friday with 11 games on Black Friday. Those games will wrap up group play in the NBA Emirates Cup and determine which eight teams advance to the knockout rounds.

In recent years, the NBA has also scheduled other days without any games, including Election Day and Christmas Eve.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander plans to refuel with the off-day given by the NBA

The OKC Thunder secured a 113-105 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday. As many expected, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the one who made the biggest difference, pouring in 40 points.

He logged 37 minutes of action and looked worn out afterward, but he was thankful for the off-day the NBA granted on Thursday.

“I’m tired. But tomorrow is Thanksgiving, I’ll get a lot of fuel, lot of food in me and I’ll be okay,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.

Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra also shared his thoughts on achieving an incredible feat heading into Thanksgiving. After Miami’s tight 106-103 win over the Milwaukee Bucks, he reached a milestone by earning his 800th coaching victory with the franchise.

“It hasn't sunk in yet because I wasn't aware of it,” Spoelstra said. “Yeah, I mean, I guess it's fitting that it comes on the eve of Thanksgiving, right? Like, I just feel incredible gratitude for this organization and all of these years… I'm feeling great gratitude, you know, heading into Thanksgiving.”