Everyone loves catching a thrilling NBA game, whether it’s the fast-paced action, the buzzer-beaters, or just rooting for your favorite team. Trust me, the best experience is always at the game itself. But let's be real, sometimes you can’t make it to the arena, so knowing where to watch NBA games becomes crucial. During the 2022-23 NBA season, there were 1,230 regular-season games. That's a lot of basketball, and you don’t want to miss any of the action.
First off, cable TV is a traditional option. ESPN and TNT are two major networks that broadcast NBA games. These channels air most of the high-profile matchups, like LeBron James going head-to-head with Stephen Curry. They also have exclusive rights to the playoffs. Talking about costs, cable subscriptions can range from $50 to $150 per month, depending on your package. Sure, it’s a hefty price, but you get not just NBA games, but also other sports and channels.
Streaming services are the other big hitter. Platforms like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV offer live sports as part of their packages. For instance, Hulu + Live TV costs around $65 per month, while YouTube TV is in the same ballpark. If you’re a cord-cutter like me, these options are fantastic because they often come with a one-week free trial. Plus, the flexibility to stream on different devices is a game changer. I remember catching a crucial Lakers game on my phone while traveling, thanks to YouTube TV.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there’s NBA League Pass. This service lets you watch all out-of-market NBA games live and on-demand. The price? Well, it’s about $199 for the full season, which is pretty reasonable if you're a hardcore fan. Even better, they have a monthly subscription that costs $28.99. With NBA League Pass, you get to see exclusive camera angles and behind-the-scenes content that you won’t get on national broadcasts. It’s a dream come true for data geeks like me who love every stat and every play breakdown.
Then there are local channels. Many local games are broadcast on regional sports networks (RSNs) like Fox Sports or NBC Sports. Depending on your location, you might already have access to these with a basic cable package. Last season, regional networks broadcast about 60% of games for local teams, so if you're a homer for your city’s franchise, this is a solid option. I remember my old man never missing a Cleveland Cavaliers game because he just tuned into Fox Sports Ohio.
For those constantly on the move, mobile apps are a lifesaver. You can use the ESPN app, NBA app, or even your cable provider’s app to watch games live. These apps often have a ‘watch anywhere’ functionality, letting you catch games while you’re out and about. For example, I once watched a Miami Heat game while waiting for my flight at the airport. The modern tech is mind-blowing!
Now, I get it. We all want to avoid blackouts. NBA games are sometimes subject to regional blackouts, especially if another network holds exclusive rights in your area. For instance, if the game is airing on a local RSN, even if you have NBA League Pass, you won’t be able to watch it live. It’s frustrating, but rules are rules. In those cases, using a VPN to change your location can sometimes help bypass these restrictions, though it’s a bit of a gray area legally.
Lastly, social media platforms can keep you in the loop with highlights, live updates, and even full-game replays. Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are great for following your favorite teams and players. Sometimes, the NBA or teams stream games or parts of games on these platforms. Like, who doesn’t love watching a quick highlight reel of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dunks or Trae Young’s incredible three-pointers?
Feeling overwhelmed with all these options? I get it. But having these choices means you’ll never have to miss a game again, whether you’re at home, traveling, or just out for a walk. And if you ever find yourself not knowing where to start, arena plus is a good spot to get all your updates. From cable TV and streaming services to mobile apps and social media, the NBA action is always just a click away.