Watching sports on television has never been easier, and with the shift towards streaming services, it has become even more accessible for NBA fans. However, the vast array of options and agreements can be overwhelming for those looking to stay up to date with their favorite teams. With 30 teams playing 82 games each during the regular NBA season, the sheer volume of matches can make it challenging to keep up. This guide aims to provide a clear path for fans to access games, regardless of whether they have cut the cord to avoid traditional cable or satellite TV fees.
Nationally televised NBA games are broadcast on four primary networks: ABC, ESPN (which also includes ESPN2 as a secondary station), TNT (with TBS acting as a secondary station), and NBA TV. However, not all NBA games are aired on national networks, and many are only available on regional sports channels such as Bally Sports and AT&T’s SportsNet. The diverse coverage agreements vary from team to team and region to region, making it impossible to cover all the details in this guide. To determine which games are playing on which channels, fans are advised to look up the NBA schedule. It’s worth noting that games televised live on national channels can be subject to local blackouts, meaning they are unavailable to viewers in the local area where the game is being played.
For those who are tracking a favorite team outside of their home television market, the NBA League Pass offers a straightforward solution. Priced at $100 per season, the basic League Pass package allows fans to watch any out-of-market games. However, local market games and nationally televised games may be blacked out. Alternatively, the NBA Team Pass at $90 per season is an option for fans exclusively following one team. Subscribing to the League Pass Premium for $150 per season removes ads and enables multi-device access, while also including NBA TV.
Among the live TV streaming options, Sling TV offers an attractive package for NBA fans. Priced at $40 per month, the Sling TV Orange package includes channels like TNT, TBS, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3 exclusively, although it does not include ABC. Fans can add the NBA League Pass for an additional $15 per month to access NBA games. Alternatively, the Sports Extra add-on at $11 per month includes NBA TV. However, the absence of regional networks like Bally Sports and SportsNet may limit access to some games.
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YouTube TV is another competitive option, priced at $73 per month, offering access to ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, TBS, and NBA TV. Similar to Sling TV, YouTube TV also lacks Bally Sports and SportsNet, restricting access to in-market games for subscribers. A premium option is DirecTV Stream, which ranges in price from $65 to $90 per month and includes ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, TNT, TBS, and NBA TV. This option also provides access to regional sports networks like Bally Sports and SportsNet, enabling fans to watch live in-market games that are otherwise unavailable via streaming services.
While these picks are recommended for most fans, other streaming options are available. FuboTV, priced at $75 per month, offers access to ESPN, ESPN2, NBA TV, and ABC, with access to TNT and TBS through additional subscriptions. However, it does not carry regional sports networks like Bally Sports. Ultimately, the best streaming option for fans will depend on their preferences, budget, and preferred access to games.
In conclusion, advancements in streaming services have made it easier for NBA fans to access games, but the complex web of agreements between networks and teams can create challenges. By considering the options mentioned in this guide, fans can find a suitable solution based on their viewing preferences, regional constraints, and budget. So, equip yourself with the right streaming services, grab your favorite team’s jersey, and get ready to enjoy an unparalleled NBA experience from the comfort of your own home.
