How to Watch NBA Live in 2026
Compare 7 streaming services with NBA coverage. Prices start at $12.99/month.
Quick Answer: Best Ways to Watch NBA
Where to Stream NBA in the United States
The National Basketball Association (NBA) broadcasts games across multiple networks throughout its October-June season. Since 2025-26 national games are split between ABC/ESPN, NBC/Peacock and Amazon Prime Video, with Peacock and Prime Video each carrying streaming-only games. Between those packages and regional sports networks, finding complete coverage requires careful planning.
| Service | Monthly Price | Coverage | Free Trial | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Peacock
|
$12.99/mo | Partial NBC games streamed live, Peacock-exclusive Monday games, Sunday Night Basketball, playoffs | No | Visit Site |
Amazon Prime Video
|
$14.99/mo | Partial 66 exclusive regular-season games, NBA Cup knockout rounds, all Play-In games and about a third of playoff rounds 1-2; NBA League Pass sold as a Prime Video Channel | No | Sign Up |
NBA League Pass
|
$16.99/mo | Full All out-of-market games, local blackouts apply; sold on NBA.com and as a Prime Video Channel | No | Visit Site |
Sling TV
|
$45.99/mo | Partial ESPN games only | No | Visit Site |
YouTube TV
|
$82.99/mo | Partial National games on ABC/ESPN and NBC. Prime Video and Peacock exclusives not included. No RSN coverage. | 7 days | Visit Site |
Fubo
|
$88.99/mo | Partial National games on ABC/ESPN and NBC. Prime Video and Peacock exclusives not included. | 7 days | Visit Site |
Hulu + Live TV
|
$99.99/mo | Partial National games on ABC/ESPN and NBC. Prime Video and Peacock exclusives not included. No RSN coverage. | 7 days | Visit Site |
NBA Streaming Options Explained
Peacock
Peacock offers significant sports value with Premier League, NFL, NBA, MLB and WWE coverage. It's an excellent complement to other services.
Pros
- Premier League coverage
- NFL Sunday Night Football
- NBA and MLB Sunday Night Baseball
- WWE content
Cons
- No local channels
- Limited DVR features
- Some content is premium-only
NBA League Pass
NBA League Pass is essential for fans wanting to follow out-of-market teams, though local game blackouts remain a limitation.
Pros
- All out-of-market games
- Multiple viewing options
- Choice of home/away feeds
- Game archives
Cons
- Blackout restrictions
- Local games excluded
- Expensive during season
Sling TV
Sling TV offers the most affordable entry into live TV streaming, with Orange and Blue packages that can be combined or kept separate.
Pros
- Lowest base price
- Flexible packages
- No contract
- A la carte add-ons
Cons
- Limited DVR storage
- No local channels in most markets
- Split packages confusing
YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers a comprehensive live TV streaming experience with all major broadcast networks and most sports channels. It's often the simplest choice for cord-cutters who want traditional TV coverage.
Pros
- No contract required
- Unlimited DVR storage
- Up to 6 accounts
- Wide channel selection
Cons
- Higher price point
- No standalone sports package
- Regional sports networks vary by market
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to watch NBA?
The most affordable option to watch NBA is Peacock at $12.99/month.
Can I watch NBA without cable?
Yes! You can stream NBA without a traditional cable subscription through services like Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, NBA League Pass. These streaming services offer live coverage that works on smart TVs, phones, tablets, and computers.
Which streaming service has the best NBA coverage?
The best service depends on your needs. For comprehensive coverage, we recommend comparing the services above based on game availability, price, and additional features like DVR and simultaneous streams.
Are there any free ways to watch NBA?
Some NBA games may be available on free broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX) which you can access with a digital antenna. Additionally, most streaming services offer free trials for new subscribers.
Can I watch NBA on my phone or tablet?
Yes, all the streaming services listed above have mobile apps for iOS and Android devices. You can watch NBA games live on your phone or tablet with any of these services.
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