DENG READY FOR CHRISTMAS DUTY - Hoopsfix.com

DENG READY FOR CHRISTMAS DUTY

Former GB forward Luol Deng is set to spend his Christmas Day marking LeBron James on the global superstar’s first game back in Miami following his high profile move to the Cleveland Cavaliers this summer.

Deng, who himself was at the Cavs last season, joined the Heat in the summer and the two teams now go head-to-head at 10pm (BT Sport 1).

“At first it was a strange feeling playing on Xmas Day but now I’ve gotten used to it,” the 29-year-old said. “I really like how the NBA has made it a real family festive day where people come out to arenas all over the US to support the league. It’s something I really enjoy being a part of.

“I will get ready for the game as I usually would from my pre-game meal to being at the arena early. All of my family will be in to watch the game which has become a yearly thing now. We will then head home after the game and eat food and have a real family catch up. Me and my brothers will also watch some of the other later NBA games.”

Deng, who hasn’t featured for Great Britain since 2012, has settled into Miami following an uncomfortable stint in Cleveland last term.

And South Beach will be a home from home for his UK-based family.

“I haven’t spent Christmas Day in London for so long,” he said. “I’ve got used to all my family being with me in the US. I remember how brilliant London looks at this time of year. It always has so many Christmas decorations and lights which was really cool to see.”

Main image: NBAE/Getty