2023 How to watch NBA games for Free Guide
The NBA season is in full swing, and basketball fans everywhere are eager to catch their favorite teams in action. However, many fans are hesitant to pay for expensive cable or streaming services to access games. The good news is that you can watch NBA games for free with a few simple tips.
Cutting the cord has never been easier, and you don’t have to sacrifice your love for basketball to save money. In this post, we’ll share some tips on how to watch NBA games without breaking the bank. From streaming services to free trials and using social media, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to catch all the action from the comfort of your home without breaking the bank.
Top cable-free options for watching NBA games
Cable-free options for watching NBA games have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing fans to enjoy the action without being tied to a cable subscription. One of the most popular options is NBA League Pass, which allows viewers to stream live games and replays on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Here are some of the best streaming services for NBA fans:
- NBA League Pass: If you’re a die-hard NBA fan, NBA League Pass is a must-have. With this service, you can watch every out-of-market game live or on-demand, including playoffs and finals. You can also choose to follow a single team or purchase a monthly pass to watch all the games.
- Sling TV: Sling TV offers two packages, Sling Orange and Sling Blue, both of which include ESPN and TNT, two of the main networks that broadcast NBA games. You can also add on NBA TV for an additional fee.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV offers live streaming of over 65 channels, including ESPN, TNT, and ABC. You can also add on NBA TV for an additional fee. With this service, you can watch NBA games live or record them to watch later.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV offers live streaming of over 70 channels, including ESPN, TNT, and ABC. You can also add on NBA TV for an additional fee. With this service, you can watch NBA games live, record them, or even pause and rewind them.
Top websites and mobile apps for free NBA streaming
There are several websites and mobile apps that offer free NBA streaming. These websites and apps are easy to use and offer high-quality streaming of NBA games. Here are some top websites and mobile apps for free NBA streaming:
- NBAStreams.xyz: This website offers free streaming of NBA games. It has a simple interface and provides high-quality streaming of NBA games.
- Stream2Watch: This website provides streaming of various sports including basketball. It offers live streaming of NBA games and other sports events.
- Reddit NBA streams: Reddit is a popular social media website that offers free NBA streaming. You can find live NBA games on various subreddits dedicated to NBA streaming.
- Sportsurge: This website offers free streaming of various sports including the NBA. It has a simple interface and provides high-quality streaming of NBA games.
- LiveNetTV: This mobile app offers free streaming of various TV channels including sports channels. It offers live streaming of NBA games and other sports events.
These websites and mobile apps are a great way to watch NBA games for free. However, it’s important to note that some of these websites and mobile apps may not be legal and safe to use. It’s always recommended to use a reliable VPN service to protect your privacy and security while streaming NBA games online.
How to watch NBA games for free on Roku, Firestick, and other streaming devices
If you own a Roku, Firestick, or any other streaming device, you can easily watch NBA games for free. One way to do this is by installing the NBA app on your device. The app is free to download and once you have it installed, you can watch live games, highlights, and other NBA content for free. However, some of the content may require a subscription or a cable login to access it.
Third-party apps
Another way to watch NBA games for free on your streaming device is by using third-party apps. There are many free streaming apps available on the internet that offer live sports streams, including NBA games. Some popular apps include Mobdro, Live NetTV, and RedBox TV. However, these apps may not be legal and could potentially put your device at risk, so use caution when using them.
Free trials
You can also use free trials from streaming services like Hulu Live, Sling TV, and YouTube TV to watch NBA games for free. These services offer live TV channels, including NBA games, and many of them offer free trials for new users. Just be sure to cancel your subscription before the trial period ends to avoid being charged.
Use Sling TV to watch NBA Games without cable (Free Trial)
Sling TV is one of the best ways to watch NBA games live without cable. It offers a wide variety of channels, including ESPN, TNT, and NBA TV. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, smartphones, and tablets, making it easy to watch your favorite NBA team wherever you are. It’s the best value on this list given the features and price point. Here’s what you need to know:
- Packages start at $35 a month
- Includes live streaming of popular networks airing NBA games like ABC, TNT, FOX Sports Regional channels, and NBA TV (plus more than 20 other channels)
- No contract and no commitment
- Available for streaming from smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, computers, streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV Stick, and smart TVs
- Free one-week trial so you can try it on for size before paying for a subscription
- Live coverage of all local games on your FOX Sports Regional network
- Live streaming of all games on ABC (through ESPN3)
- Live coverage of games and post-game coverage on TNT
- Live coverage of the games aired on ESPN*Live coverage of games on NBA TV with the Sports Extra package
- A multitude of non-sports channels for the rest of the family to enjoy
- Free Roku when you pay for 3 months of your subscription in advance
- Discount on an Apple TV when you pay for 3 months of your subscription in advance
- 30% off the cost of subscription for T-Mobile customers
While not the most comprehensive option on this list, Sling TV is the best option given the value per dollar and just how much content you get for the price.

To get started with Sling TV, you’ll need to sign up for a subscription. The service offers several different packages, starting at just $35 per month. You can choose the package that best suits your needs and budget.
Once you’ve signed up for Sling TV, you can start watching NBA games live. The service offers a variety of features that make it easy to keep up with your favorite teams and players. For example, you can set up notifications to alert you when a game is about to start, and you can use the DVR feature to record games and watch them later.
Use AT&T TV NOW to watch NBA Games Tonight without cable (Free Trial)
If you’re a basketball fan and want to catch NBA games live without cable, AT&T TV NOW is a great option. With this streaming service, you can watch all your favorite NBA games live and even record them to watch later.
AT&T TV NOW (formerly DirectTV) is another online streaming service, this one slightly more expensive with plans starting from $35 per month. Depending on the subscription package, it offers 60-100+ channels for live streaming. It has similar options to Sling TV for the devices you can stream from. Here’s an overview of the features:
- Free one-week trial
- No contract, no commitment
- Live coverage of the local games aired on your Comcast Sportsnet Regional network
- Live coverage of the local games aired on your FOX Sports Regional network
- Coverage of all games aired on ABC (through ESPN3)
- Coverage of all games on NBA TV
- Coverage of all games on TNT as well as post-game coverage
- Coverage of every game on ESPN
- Limited-time promotion of 100+ channels for only $35
- The limited-time free streaming device is offered for a 3-month signup
While more expensive than Sling TV, AT&T TV NOW is still a great option for those wanting to cut cable and a pretty good value for the price. It also has local coverage of more teams than Sling TV, so certain parts of the country might find this to be a better option.
With AT&T TV NOW, you’ll have access to ESPN, TNT, ABC, and many more channels that air NBA games. You can choose from their several packages starting at just $55 per month, which is much cheaper than a traditional cable subscription.
The best part about AT&T TV NOW is that you can watch NBA games live on your phone, tablet, computer, or TV. All you need is an internet connection and a device to stream on. Plus, if you’re not sure if AT&T TV NOW is right for you, you can take advantage of their 7-day free trial to test it out.
Stream NBA Games Tonight with Fubo
Fubo is another live-streaming service in the same vein as the previous two covered. While it offers similar coverage to Sling TV, it does have a few major drawbacks. First of all, the packages start between $29.99 and $39.99 depending on your local market. It’s only available to stream via PS3, PS4, Fire TV, and Chromecast. It’s also available on mobile iOS devices, but you can’t access most channels away from your home network. Overall, while it is an option, it’s not really that great of a value.

Teams covered by Sling TV, AT&T TV Now & Fubo:
- Phoenix Suns
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- LA Lakers
- Chicago Bulls
- Los Angeles Clippers
- Houston Rockets
- Washington Wizards
- Atlanta Hawks
- Detroit Pistons
- Toronto Raptors
- Boston Celtics
- NY Knicks
- Philadelphia 76ers
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Utah Jazz
- Dallas Mavericks
- Charlotte Hornets
- Miami Heat
- Milwaukee Bucks
- Indiana Pacers
- San Antonio Spurs
- New Orleans Pelicans
- OKC Thunder
Use NBA League Pass to watch NBA without cable
If you’re a big NBA fan, NBA League Pass is a great option to stream live games. With League Pass, you can watch every game live, including nationally televised games, and catch up on any missed games with on-demand replays.

While this is the option with the most comprehensive coverage by far, it’s also the most expensive. Weighing in at a hefty $199.99 per season, it’s still cheaper than cable but not by a lot. It also comes with the major drawback of local blackouts; if you’re local to a team, you can’t stream the game live and must wait until after the fact to stream it on demand. That said, here are the features:
- Available for streaming from smartphones, computers, gaming consoles, Apple TV, and streaming devices like Roku
- Stream up to four games at once
- On-demand streaming of classic and iconic games from NBA history
- On-demand replays of every regular season NBA game
One of the best things about League Pass is that you can choose between home or away broadcasts. So, if you’re a fan of a particular commentator or prefer the team’s local broadcast, you can choose that option. Additionally, you can watch condensed games that last about 45 minutes, which is perfect if you don’t have time to watch the full game.
However, it’s important to note that NBA League Pass has blackout restrictions for local and nationally televised games. This means that if the game is being shown on a local or national TV network, you won’t be able to watch it live on League Pass. But, you can still watch the game on-demand once the blackout period is over.
Use Hulu Live TV to watch NBA without cable
Hulu Live TV is a great way to watch NBA games live without cable. With Hulu Live TV, you can watch all of your favorite NBA games on ESPN, ABC, TNT, and NBA TV. Hulu Live TV is a subscription-based service that offers over 60 channels, including live sports, news, and entertainment.
To get started, all you need is a compatible device and a high-speed internet connection. The service is available on a variety of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, smartphones, and tablets. Once you have signed up for Hulu Live TV, you can access all of the live NBA games that are available on the service.
Hulu Live TV also offers a cloud DVR feature, which allows you to record NBA games and watch them later. This is a great feature for those who are unable to watch the games live due to work or other obligations. With the cloud DVR, you can record multiple games at once and watch them later at your convenience.
In addition to live NBA games, Hulu Live TV also offers a variety of on-demand content, including movies, TV shows, and Hulu Originals. So even if you miss a game, you can still catch up on all of the action with the on-demand content that is available on the service.
Use YouTube TV to watch NBA games for free (trial)
YouTube TV offers a comprehensive selection of NBA games and related programming, including regular season, playoff, and championship games on channels such as ESPN, TNT, and NBA TV. To access these games, you must first sign up for a YouTube TV subscription and ensure that the channels carrying NBA games are available in your area. Once you have subscribed, you can stream NBA games live on your computer, mobile device, or TV using the YouTube TV app or website. Additionally, YouTube TV offers a cloud DVR service, allowing users to record games for later viewing if they cannot watch the NBA game live.
- 60-Day Free Trial
- Live and on-demand streaming of NBA games, including regular season, playoffs, and championship games
- Access to major NBA channels, including ESPN, TNT, NBA TV, ABC, and regional sports networks
- Ability to record NBA games using YouTube TV’s cloud DVR service, with no storage limits and the ability to record multiple games simultaneously
- Customizable alerts for upcoming NBA games, including notifications for when your favorite teams or players are playing
- NBA League Pass add-on is available for an additional fee, providing access to out-of-market games, live and on-demand, including the ability to watch multiple games at once with the multi-game view option.
To get started, you need to sign up for YouTube TV by creating an account and subscribing to their service. Once you have subscribed, you can download the YouTube TV app on your smart TV or streaming device, or simply watch games on your laptop or mobile device.

YouTube TV offers a cloud DVR feature that allows you to record games and watch them at a later time. This is a great feature for those who cannot watch games live due to work or other commitments. You can also pause and rewind live games, so you never miss a single moment of the action.
One of the best things about YouTube TV is that you can watch games on multiple devices simultaneously. This means that you can watch a game on your smart TV while your family members watch other shows on their laptops or mobile devices.
How to watch NBA games live with ESPN+
ESPN+ is a great option for watching NBA games live without cable. With ESPN+, you can watch live NBA games every day of the week. ESPN+ also offers exclusive games that aren’t available on cable. Additionally, you can watch replays of games that have already aired.

To get started with ESPN+, you’ll need to sign up for the service. The cost is $5.99 per month or $59.99 for an annual subscription. Once you’ve signed up, you can watch NBA games live on your computer, phone, or tablet. You can also watch on your TV using a streaming device like Roku, Apple TV, or Chromecast.
One thing to note is that not all NBA games are available on ESPN+. Some games are blacked out due to regional restrictions. To find out which games are available in your area, you can check the NBA schedule on ESPN’s website.
Live Streaming of up to 40 NBA games each week
Other services offered by the NBA are NBA Team Pass, which offers coverage of a single team for $119.99 per season, and NBA Single Game Pass for $6.99, which offers streaming of a single game. Local blackouts apply to these packages as well, however. There is also NBA League Pass International, which is for non-US residents and offers the same features with no blackouts.
Use an antenna to watch NBA without cable for free
This is an often-overlooked option. Public broadcast networks can be accessed for free by investing in an over-the-air antenna to connect to your TV. There are several high-definition options available on the market. Over the air, programming can offer you access to coverage of your local team through NBA on ABC.
ABC usually airs one or two featured games each weekend. If this option doesn’t seem viable because you won’t always be home during the live broadcast, you may want to look into an over-the-air digital video recorder (OTA DVR).
There is a wide range of these on the market right now, with basic ones weighing in at fairly inexpensive prices and more high-tech models available at a higher cost. While public broadcast television is not a comprehensive option for keeping up with your favorite NBA team, it’s an option to look into if you live locally with your team.
With so many options available for keeping up with your favorite team (live or otherwise), it’s increasingly clear that a cable sports package is no longer necessary for the devoted NBA fan like it once was. Why not look into the options above and find the best fit to help you cut the cord?
FAQs on Where to watch NBA games today
Where can I watch the NBA for free?
There are multiple ways to watch the NBA for free. You can sign up for a 7-day free trial of NBA League Pass, which allows you to stream live and on-demand games. Alternatively, many streaming services, such as YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and Sling TV, offer discounted packages where you can access NBA broadcasts. Additionally, regional sports networks often carry local NBA games that can be streamed for free via their dedicated app.
Where can I watch the NBA games live?
The best way to watch NBA games live is by signing up for a paid subscription to NBA League Pass. This will give you access to all regular season and playoff games, as well as other features such as stats, highlights, and more. Additionally, many streaming services such as YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and Sling TV offer packages that include access to select NBA broadcasts.
What channel is the NBA Finals on tonight?
The NBA Finals are broadcast by ABC, which is available on most cable and satellite providers. Check your local listings to see if ABC is part of your package. If not, you may be able to stream the game via the ABC app or website.
How can I watch all NBA games?
The easiest way to watch all NBA games is by signing up for a paid subscription to NBA League Pass. This will give you access to all regular season and playoff games, as well as other features such as stats, highlights, and more. Additionally, many streaming services such as YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and Sling TV offer packages that include access to select NBA broadcasts.
Does Hulu have NBA games?
Yes, Hulu+ Live TV does offer an add-on package that gives viewers access to select NBA broadcasts.
What channels are NBA games on?
NBA games typically air on ESPN, TNT, and ABC. In addition, some regional sports networks may carry local NBA broadcasts. Check your local listings for availability.
Can I watch NBA Finals for free?
Yes, it is possible to watch the NBA Finals for free. ABC usually carries the NBA Finals so check your local listings to see if ABC is part of your package. If not, you may be able to stream the game via the ABC app or website.
Are all NBA Finals on ABC?
Yes, all of the NBA finals are broadcast by ABC.
Is NBA Finals on free TV?
Yes, the NBA Finals are broadcast by ABC which is available on most cable and satellite providers. Check your local listings for availability.
Can I watch NBA on Amazon Prime?
Yes, you can watch select NBA games through Amazon Prime Video using an Amazon Prime membership or subscription to an eligible channel partner.
How can I watch NBA games for free without cable?
You can watch selected NBA games for free without cable by signing up for a 7-day free trial of NBA League Pass. Additionally, many streaming services, such as YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and Sling TV offer discounted packages where you can access NBA broadcasts. Regional sports networks often carry local NBA games that can be streamed for free via their dedicated app.
Where can I watch NBA on TV?
You can find NBA games airing on ESPN, TNT, and ABC. In addition, some regional sports networks may carry local NBA broadcasts. Check your local listings for availability.
Final thoughts on cord-cutting for NBA fans
Cutting the cord and finding alternative ways to watch your favorite NBA teams play is becoming increasingly popular. With so many streaming options available, it’s easier than ever before to catch every game without having to pay for cable.
One thing to keep in mind is that while the cost of cutting the cord may be lower, you may need to invest in some extra equipment, such as a streaming device or antenna, to get the best viewing experience.
Be aware of blackout restrictions in your area, which can prevent you from watching your local team’s games on certain services. However, there are ways to work around these restrictions, such as using a VPN to change your location or subscribing to a service that offers out-of-market games.
Ultimately, cutting the cord to watch NBA games can be a great way to save money and still enjoy your favorite teams’ games. With a little research and some experimentation with different streaming services, you can find the perfect setup that works for you.
We hope you enjoyed our article on how to watch NBA games for free and cut the cord! It’s always great to save money and still be able to enjoy your favorite sports. With these tips, you can watch NBA games without having to pay for a cable subscription. We hope that you found our guide informative and helpful. Now, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and cheer on your favorite team! Let’s go, team!
Page Contents
- 2023 How to watch NBA games for Free Guide
- Top cable-free options for watching NBA games
- Top websites and mobile apps for free NBA streaming
- How to watch NBA games for free on Roku, Firestick, and other streaming devices
- Use Sling TV to watch NBA Games without cable (Free Trial)
- Use AT&T TV NOW to watch NBA Games Tonight without cable (Free Trial)
- Stream NBA Games Tonight with Fubo
- Use NBA League Pass to watch NBA without cable
- Use Hulu Live TV to watch NBA without cable
- Use YouTube TV to watch NBA games for free (trial)
- How to watch NBA games live with ESPN+
- Live Streaming of up to 40 NBA games each week
- Use an antenna to watch NBA without cable for free
- FAQs on Where to watch NBA games today
- Final thoughts on cord-cutting for NBA fans