If you’re an NBA fan like me, figuring out where to watch the games each season can feel like a daunting task. But let’s get straight to the point. There are several major streaming options that can cater to all your basketball needs without the need to glue yourself to a cable box.
First off, one of my go-to platforms is NBA League Pass. For a die-hard fan, it’s basically a dream come true because it offers access to almost every game live and on-demand. The subscription costs roughly $28.99 per month, which isn’t too bad considering the wealth of content you get. Just think about it: over 1,000 regular-season games and plenty of behind-the-scenes footage. Another perk is the multi-view feature, where you can watch up to four games simultaneously. Perfect for those who hate missing out.
Of course, if you primarily follow your own local team, you might find that NBA League Pass blocks out games in your area due to regional restrictions. This is where platforms like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV come in handy. Both offer regional sports networks (RSNs) alongside major broadcasters like ESPN, TNT, and ABC. If you’re budgeting, YouTube TV costs about $64.99 a month while Hulu + Live TV is priced at $69.99, which also gives you access to Hulu’s entire streaming library. A double win if you ask me.
Let’s not forget about newer and innovative services like Sling TV and fuboTV. I remember a news article from last year highlighting how fuboTV, although originally sports-focused, has now expanded to a variety of content while maintaining a strong emphasis on live sports. Sling TV, on the other hand, is more customizable. You can start with their Orange package at $35 per month, which includes ESPN, and add on sports extras for a few additional bucks.
DirecTV Stream is another player worth mentioning, especially if you want the classic feel of satellite or cable without all the hardware. Their plans start at $69.99 per month, but the real catch is their Choice package at $84.99, which includes regional sports networks. Plus, if you’re getting tired of the constant channel surfing, they also offer cloud DVR functionality to record and watch games later.
For those moments you’re out and about but can’t miss a single dunk or three-pointer, the ESPN app is quite effective. By logging in with your TV provider credentials, you can stream NBA on ESPN games live right from your phone. This came in clutch for me numerous times during last year’s playoff run. Although the downside is, if you don’t already have a TV provider subscription, you’d need one to access the app’s full features.
Interestingly, if you’re a fan in China, Tencent Sports offers extensive coverage of the NBA, including both live games and replays. I came across a report stating that almost 490 million Chinese people watched NBA games through Tencent during the 2020-2021 season. It proves just how significant the online streaming market is.
One can’t miss mentioning the Verizon deal with NBA League Pass. If you’re a Verizon customer, you can get League Pass at a discount price. This saves you a few bucks and still gives you full access. It’s like they read my mind when they set up that partnership!
If the internet speed where you live is less reliable or tends to fluctuate, Amazon Prime Video offers the option to buy single games or subscribe to NBA League Pass. This service is just another choice in a long list of accessible services. While the cost of individual games can add up, it’s perfect for watching that one big game your friends are all talking about.
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Additionally, Peacock entered the sports streaming game in a big way by airing a few NBA games and NBA TV. It’s relatively inexpensive, priced at $4.99 per month with commercials or $9.99 without. It feels pretty refreshing to have that many options to cover different fan needs and budgets.
Disney+ recently started including ESPN content, which might evolve to stream more live sports, including NBA games. Given Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox and their steady inclusion of new content, I’m betting it’s only a matter of time. Keeping an eye on these ongoing changes, I’ve noticed how influential mergers and acquisitions can be on our viewing options.
Each platform has its pros and cons, but they’re all viable in their own ways for catching NBA action. Remember to check which service has your favorite team’s games and see how they fit into your lifestyle and budget before committing. Trust me, once you find the right fit, it makes following the season so much more enjoyable.