I’ve always been a huge NBA fan, and finding the best ways to stream live games has become an essential part of my routine. Let me tell you, it gets tricky with so many options out there. But, through trial and error, I’ve figured out the top methods to catch all the action, whether you are at home or on the go.
First off, let’s talk about NBA League Pass. This is probably the most comprehensive option out there. It gives you access to every game for a full season, including the playoffs. Sure, it isn’t the cheapest option, with prices ranging from about $119.99 to $249.99 per year depending on the package you choose, but the upside is you get unmatched coverage. With NBA League Pass, you can stream live games on multiple devices, so it’s perfect if you like watching on your TV, laptop, and phone. Plus, it includes classic games and additional content that hardcore fans like me appreciate.
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, ESPN+ and Sling TV are solid options. ESPN+ costs around $5.99 per month, and Sling TV’s Orange package, which includes ESPN, goes for $35 per month. These services don’t offer every game, but they do cover a good percentage of the season. For instance, ESPN+ often features nationally televised games. While you might miss out on some matchups, the combined cost savings and variety of content definitely make these options worth considering. And honestly, how many of us have time to watch every single game anyway?
Then, of course, there’s the question of local team coverage. If your main focus is following your local team, you’ll benefit from using services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, both priced at around $64.99 per month. These platforms include regional sports networks that broadcast local games. For instance, if you’re a fan of the Golden State Warriors, NBC Sports Bay Area is essential, and these services ensure you won’t miss a Warriors game. The great thing about Hulu + Live TV is that it also includes access to Hulu’s streaming library, so it doubles up as a general entertainment package.
A great less-talked-about option for some of those standout games is good old social media. Twitter, in particular, often collaborates with the NBA to stream certain games live. It won’t replace a paid service entirely, but it’s a nifty way to catch some high-profile matchups without spending a dime. Last year, for example, Twitter streamed the NBA game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks, which turned out to be an epic showdown.
In recent years, streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video have been entering the sports broadcasting realm. While Amazon does not yet have a comprehensive NBA package, they do show select games. For instance, Amazon Prime members could watch certain WNBA games as part of their membership. With more companies like Amazon looking to secure streaming rights, it’s possible we will see a more competitive market and better deals in the near future. Keep an eye on these developments as they happen.
The tech-savvy among us might also explore VPN services to get around blackout restrictions. A subscription to a good VPN service, which typically costs about $10-$15 per month, can allow you to access NBA game streams from different regions. For example, if you’re in a blackout area for an NBA League Pass game, a VPN can make it appear as if you’re in a different location. This can be particularly useful if you’re following a team that isn’t in your local market.
On a personal note, one of my favorite ways to catch games when I can’t be in front of a screen is satellite radio. NBA broadcasts on SiriusXM provide live play-by-play for most games. An All Access subscription costs around $21.99 per month. I love this option for when I’m driving or otherwise can’t sit down to watch. The broadcasters on SiriusXM do a great job of delivering the excitement of the game, and it’s a worthwhile supplement to any visual streaming package.
As someone who loves to collect vintage nba jerseys, finding the right streaming service has helped me stay connected with my favorite players and moments in real-time. Nothing beats the feeling of putting on my classic Chicago Bulls jersey and tuning in to watch a live game.
One last tip I have for you is to occasionally check for promotions. Around the start of each season or during major holidays, streaming services often offer discounts. Last year, for instance, Hulu + Live TV had a Black Friday deal that slashed its price by 50% for the first three months. Keep an eye on these deals to get the most value for your money.
The landscape for streaming NBA games is always changing, but by combining different services and technologies, you can pretty much guarantee that you’ll catch all the action you crave. All you need is a bit of planning, and you’ve got every three-pointer, dunk, and buzzer-beater right at your fingertips.