It is almost a wrap on the glorious year. The 2024 rookie class made a historic debut, New York won its first-ever title, women’s basketball saw new heights, and the players — active and former — end the year laid back, with love, and some words of advice.

From celebrated coach Dawn Staley to college phenom Flau’Jae Johnson, love was a common theme, but twists to the celebrations, they had their own. Here’s how:

Angel Reese

The journey from Bayou Barbie to Chi-town Barbie hasn’t been easy for 22-year-old Maryland native Angel Reese. Yet, she shined in her debut WNBA season. On and off the court, Reese was a standout, averaging nearly 13 points and 13 rebounds per game, marking her place in history with the highest double-double streak as a rookie. She is all set to take over at Unrivaled soon, already making it to Miami and back in the gym.

But taking a quick turn, Reese claims to have had a wonderful Christmas. “this christmas was sooo good <3 #blessedgirl,” she wrote, after sending out wishes and before revealing she also had some time to enjoy a nice healthy meal alongside a glass of wine. 

She was also spotted courtside at an Orlando Magic game in a black dress, adorned by fur for the sleeves and the shoulder. Hours later, she was at home, comfortable in her green checkered pajamas and dancing with her dog Tiago, with “Big Mama” emblazoned on the back.

Flau’Jae Johnson

For Angel Reese’s friend and former teammate Flau’Jae Johnson, Christmas was just as special. After a busy year at LSU, Flau’Jae took a break from basketball and rapping to focus on love. Dressed in holiday red, she shared a picture with her boyfriend, Chris Hilton Jr., both wearing matching festive pajamas, captioning it “Santa Listened” with a red heart. Fans couldn’t get enough of this holiday power couple.

Dawn Staley

Dawn Staley had a remarkable 2024, capturing moments with Olympians across various sports and leading the South Carolina Gamecocks to an impressive 11-1 record. Celebrating their first back-to-back championship title, Staley didn’t miss the chance to spread holiday cheer. She tweeted, “Merriest Christmas to you all!” and reminded everyone to be kind and non-judgmental.

“As we open our gifts, let’s not forget the gift of being a loving, caring, and non-judging human being. Let’s keep spreading it…or let’s start spreading it! Blessings to you all!” Staley’s message resonated, especially with players who often face criticism. What else would have been the perfect occasion for spreading message?

Haley Cavinder

The Cavinder twins never fail to create buzz on social media. This Christmas, Haley and her sister wore matching short cut-out dresses. Haley opted for a golden glittery dress paired with long black boots and loose waves in her hair, all while flashing a broad smile. “Merry Christmas” read her caption.

The twins shared snaps of their holiday meals, their three dogs, and even a photo with their mom and a friend, completing their Christmas celebration.

Katie Lou Samuelson

Indiana Fever standout Katie Lou Samuelson had a delightful Christmas in Greece. Married to an American professional basketball player, she spent the holiday with her husband and their little daughter. “Took a few Elfies today 😉🤣 Merry Christmas from Greece 🎄❤️🥰” she captioned, sharing family glimpses and showcasing their tight bond.

Napheesa Collier

Napheesa Collier also cherished Christmas with her family. She stunned in a green bodycon dress paired with white blingy heels, matching her husband’s green sweater. Their daughter looked equally adorable in a green skirt and white stockings. “Merry Christmas from our family to yours 🎄🎁” she captioned. The family of three also wore matching pajamas, spreading holiday cheer.

Breanna Stewart

The holidays cannot be merrier for Breanna Stewart especially after winning 2024 WNBA championship trophy. To make it more special, she along with her wife, Marta Xargay embraced the holiday spirit, dressing in red co-ord sets along with their two children.

“Merry Christmas from the Stewart Xargay family! Slide 1 vs 3: Instagram vs reality trying to get a family photo ❤️🎄” Stewart wrote, sharing their joyful family moments, as their youngest failed to sit still in the final slide.

Cameron Brink

Cameron Brink kept her Christmas celebration elegant yet simple, donning a black turtleneck paired with a fur-laden skirt and matching stilettos. Her caption, “All I want for Christmas is a healthy knee😇” highlighted her anticipation to return to the court after an ACL injury in June.

Chiney Ogwumike

Chiney Ogwumike who transitioned smoothly from the basketball court to being an ESPN analyst, had a glamorous Christmas. She celebrated the festival at the White House, wearing a glittering golden dress and sharing her joy with the world. “A White House Holiday” she tweeted, looking impressive as ever. But as a basketball fan, she also gushed over the day bringing a matchup between LeBron James and Stephen Curry. “It doesn’t get better than LeBron and Steph ballin out on Christmas Day!!!” she exclaimed.

Candace Parker

Former player Candace Parker enjoyed a family-themed Christmas, with the Parker family dressed in black and white. Even the youngest member, Summit Petrakova Parker, looked adorable in the matching outfit and a huge smile. “Merry Christmas from the Parkers ❤️❤️” she captioned, sharing their festive joy.

Sydney Colson

Las Vegas Aces standout Sydney Colson indeed had a merry Christmas, celebrated by AU Pro Basketball — where she is set to return in 2025 — who posted a tribute on Twitter. She was featured in a fun collage as “one of the faces of the league,” making for an adorable holiday card.

For some of these, it is a brief break before the Unrivaled begins about mind-January. Seems to emit calm before the storm.