The NBA season is appointment viewing those clutch three-pointers, monster dunks, and overtime thrillers are pure adrenaline. But with the 2025-26 season rolling and a massive new broadcast deal shaking things up, figuring out the best ways to watch NBA games in 2025 can feel like defending a full-court press. Gone are the days of just flipping to TNT; now we’ve got Amazon Prime, Peacock, and NBC in the mix.
Don’t sweat it, though. I’ve got your back with this no-nonsense guide to the best ways to watch NBA games in 2025. Whether you’re cord-cutting on a budget, chasing every out-of-market game, or just wanting hassle-free streams, we’ll cover legal, reliable options that keep you courtside.
Why the 2025 NBA Broadcast Deal Changes Everything
The NBA inked an 11-year, $76 billion deal last year, kicking off this season. ESPN/ABC keeps finals and key games, but NBC returns after decades away, Amazon Prime Video jumps in with exclusive packages, and sadly, TNT is out after decades of Inside the NBA magic. This means more streaming, fewer cable exclusives, and better digital quality but also blackout headaches and subscription juggling.
The upside? More choice and innovation. Prime’s X-Ray stats overlays? Peacock’s multi-game views? It’s next-level. But for fans, the best ways to watch NBA games in 2025 boil down to avoiding blackouts (local games blocked on League Pass) and stacking services smartly. Pro tip: Games air on weekdays, weekends, Christmas Day extravaganzas, and the In-Season Tournament now with higher stakes.
Searches for NBA streaming spiked 40% this year thanks to the changes proof everyone’s scrambling for answers. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to tune in for stars like Victor Wembanyama or rising rookies lighting up the league.
Ready to stream? Let’s rank the top options based on coverage, cost, and ease.
Top 7 Best Ways to Watch NBA Games in 2025
I’ve tested these myself (yes, even during those late West Coast tip-offs). Here’s the breakdown, from premium all-access to budget hacks.
1. NBA League Pass – The Ultimate for Die-Hards ($14.99–$49.99/month)
If you live outside your team’s market or want every game, League Pass is king among the best ways to watch NBA games in 2025. The new app shines with 4K options, condensed replays, and arena feeds.
- Pros: All 1,230+ regular-season games, playoffs select, no commercials on replays.
- Cons: Blackouts for local/national broadcasts pair with a VPN for workarounds (more on that later).
- Best For: Out-of-market fans or international viewers (cheaper abroad, blackout-free).
- 2025 Update: Improved mobile streaming and integration with Prime for select games.
At $149.99 for the season premium, it’s worth it if your team travels a lot. One fan tweeted, “League Pass saved my Knicks obsession living in LA!”
2. Amazon Prime Video – Fresh Exclusive Games ($8.99/month with Prime)
Amazon’s entry is the wildcard. They snag 66 regular-season games, including Black Friday’s first-ever NBA game and Thursday doubleheaders.
- Pros: Included with Prime ($139/year), slick interface, alternate streams with stats.
- Cons: Limited games mostly primetime.
- Best For: Casual fans already subscribed (free trial anyone?).
- 2025 Highlight: In-Season Tournament knockout rounds and playoffs potential.
Prime’s making waves expect shoppable jerseys mid-game soon. It’s one of the best ways to watch NBA games in 2025 for value.
3. Peacock – NBC’s Slam Dunk Return ($7.99/month Premium)
NBC is back with Sunday Night Basketball post-NFL, plus 100+ games. Peacock streams them all.
- Pros: Affordable, simulcasts with NBC broadcasts, on-demand highlights.
- Cons: Ads on lower tier, no full League Pass.
- Best For: East Coast fans loving those 6 PM tips.
- 2025 Perk: All-Star Weekend coverage and potential finals games.
Users love the picture-in-picture for multitasking. “Peacock > cable any day,” says a Reddit thread blowing up this season.
4. YouTube TV – Cable Killer with Everything ($72.99/month)
Want one app for ESPN, ABC, NBC, TNT (for now), and locals? YouTube TV delivers 175+ games nationally.
- Pros: Unlimited DVR, 4K add-on, multi-screen.
- Cons: Pricey after promos.
- Best For: Families sharing accounts.
- 2025 Twist: Adds Prime channels soon for seamless switching.
It’s the most complete of the best ways to watch NBA games in 2025 no hunting across apps.
5. Hulu + Live TV – Bundled Bliss ($82.99/month)
Hulu packs Disney+, ESPN+, and live channels (ESPN, ABC, NBC).
- Pros: On-demand library, ESPN+ for extras like 30 for 30 docs.
- Cons: No Prime integration yet.
- Best For: Binge-watchers catching up on missed games.
Pair with free trials during playoffs genius.
6. Free and Low-Cost Hacks That Actually Work
Not ready to pay? These best ways to watch NBA games in 2025 won’t cost much:
- Over-the-Air Antenna ($20 one-time): ABC games free in HD perfect for Christmas or finals.
- Network Apps: ESPN app (cable login) or NBC Sports for select free streams.
- Free Trials: Cycle Prime, Peacock, YouTube TV watch a month free each.
- NBA App Crunch Time: Free whip-around coverage during key moments.
International fans: League Pass is $99/year in many countries, no blackouts.
7. VPN + International League Pass – The Savvy Fan’s Secret
Use ExpressVPN ($8/month) to connect abroad and snag cheaper, blackout-free League Pass. Legal? Yes, for personal use. It’s a game-changer for the best ways to watch NBA games in 2025 without restrictions.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your NBA Viewing in 2025
- Beat Blackouts: VPN + international subscription = full access under $100/year.
- Multi-Game Madness: Use Quad Box on League Pass or Peacock’s hub.
- Mobile Mastery: All apps support casting to TV Chromecast or AirPlay.
- Save Cash: Share family plans; watch for Black Friday deals (Prime often bundles).
- Stay Legal: Skip shady streams laggy, virus risks, and they hurt the league.
With playoffs around the corner and trades heating up, now’s the time to lock in.
Conclusion
There you have it the definitive best ways to watch NBA games in 2025, tailored for the new era. Whether you go all-in on League Pass or mix Prime and Peacock, you’ll catch every crossover and crossover episode. The NBA’s more accessible than ever, so grab your snacks, pick your poison, and enjoy the ride.
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