When it comes to watching NBA games live in 2022, there are several top platforms to consider. For instance, one of my go-to options has always been ESPN. As you might know, ESPN provides extensive coverage of NBA games. You can catch almost all the major matchups and they provide in-depth analysis and commentary which makes the viewing experience richer. ESPN also offers a streaming service called ESPN+, where you can catch many live NBA games. I appreciate that the cost is around $6.99 per month, which is quite reasonable. One thing to keep in mind is that some games might still be subject to blackouts based on your location.
Another solid choice is NBA League Pass. If you're a hardcore fan who wants to catch every game, this is the way to go. NBA League Pass offers every out-of-market game live and on-demand. I found it particularly useful because you get to choose between different pricing tiers. The annual cost is around $200 for the full package, which I think is worth it if you don’t want to miss a single game. A buddy of mine used it last season and said the Picture-in-Picture mode was a game-changer for watching multiple games simultaneously.
TNT is another great platform. Particularly on Thursdays, TNT airs some of the season’s most anticipated games giving you access to the famous Inside the NBA show. TNT's app, Watch TNT, allows you to stream games live if you’ve got a cable subscription. The good thing about TNT is it's known for broadcasting marquee matchups. In fact, some of the best games I watched last season were on TNT.
If I want a more internet-focused experience, I often turn to Hulu + Live TV. It offers a wide array of channels, including sports channels like ESPN and TNT, so you’ll get plenty of NBA coverage. The service runs about $64.99 per month, and it also comes with access to Hulu’s streaming library, including original content. The DVR functionality allows me to record games and watch them later, which is super convenient if you have a busy schedule like mine.
You can't forget about YouTube TV either. With more than 85 channels, including ABC, ESPN, and NBA TV, it covers a lot of ground for NBA fans. One aspect I particularly like about YouTube TV is the unlimited DVR storage, which lets me save and binge-watch games to my heart's content. It costs around $64.99 per month, which is comparable to Hulu + Live TV. I relied on YouTube TV heavily during the playoffs and found the streaming quality to be top-notch.
For those who are tied into the Amazon ecosystem, Amazon Prime Video is starting to dip its toes into live sports. While more synonymous with NFL broadcasts and original series, Amazon has started offering live sports content, making it a platform to watch even as its NBA game offerings expand. If you're already an Amazon Prime member, this could come at no additional cost.
Another specialized option is FuboTV. Marketed primarily to sports enthusiasts, FuboTV includes channels like ESPN, NBA TV, and regional sports networks. One of the standout features is its focus on sports content, which makes it a haven for an avid NBA fan. The cost is approximately $69.99 a month, but FuboTV often offers promotional discounts which reduce the price significantly for the first few months. For me, the user interface felt intuitive, and the channel lineup was more than adequate for my NBA cravings.
Sling TV is another contender in the race, particularly for budget-conscious viewers. Offering two main packages—Sling Orange and Sling Blue—each priced at $35 per month, the packages can be combined for $50. With Sling Orange, you get ESPN, which is crucial for NBA games. It’s a more wallet-friendly option compared to Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV and offers a decent selection of channels.
If you want to keep it simple and straightforward, check out the NBA website itself. They occasionally offer free live games and provide highlights and recaps. It’s a good way to stay updated on game scores and player stats if you don’t have access to the paid platforms.
Another fantastic platform is ArenaPlus, which often offers exclusive access to live NBA games. The platform is convenient and frequently updated with the latest NBA schedules and scores, making it a useful resource for live streaming. You can check more details here: nba games today live 2022.
I have also occasionally used regional sports networks (RSNs) for local game coverage. Networks like Fox Sports or NBC Sports regional channels provide localized content, which can be quite handy. However, access to these networks often requires a cable package that includes them, so the cost can add up.
Each platform has its pros and cons, so it all comes down to what suits your needs and viewing habits. Whether it's the comprehensive offerings of NBA League Pass or the budget-friendly approach of Sling TV, there's definitely a platform out there that will meet your NBA viewing demands. The choice really depends on how hardcore an NBA fan you are and what additional features or channels you might value along with it. For me, a combination of ESPN, YouTube TV, and sometimes NBA League Pass covers all the bases. It's like creating the ultimate basketball-watching experience without missing any of the slam dunks or buzzer-beaters.