Every NBA fan worldwide becomes eager whenever a new season is about to start. The best place to witness the true magic of the game is in the arena, right where the excitement fuses seamlessly with the amazing skills on display. However, ticket prices and availability prevent many fans from watching it live in the arena. Thanks to affordable alternatives (streaming platforms), you can watch the NBA online from the comfort of your home.
However, some NBA streaming sites are geo-restricted, so you need a VPN to bypass them. This article provides the best ways to enjoy the NBA’s thrills and chills, no matter where you are.
Best VPNs to watch NBA online from anywhere – Quick list
- NordVPN: All the quality, none of the fuss. NordVPN is an excellent VPN for beginners and users who prefer a lighter experience.
- Private Internet Access (PIA): Privacy like no other. As you switch between locations to catch up on the games, do it safely and privately with PIA.
- ExpressVPN: Great VPN for NBA Online. Enjoy top-notch service with ExpressVPN’s super-fast, super-reliable servers.
Why do you need a VPN to watch NBA from anywhere?
Due to the NBA’s blackout policy, a form of censorship, you need a VPN to catch a game. The blackout policy is such that certain games are blacked out if the medium/network you use does not have exclusive rights to televise the games. This censorship covers all local teams and every game televised in the US. However, the blackout censor is location-specific.
It is important to mention the nature of blackout censorship because that is exactly how VPNs come into the picture. Since the blackout is location-specific, you can use a reliable and trustworthy VPN to get around it.
With the right VPN, you can make it appear like you are in a different location where the blackout will not censor you from streaming. We said the right VPN intentionally because not all VPNs can and will work for this particular task. To help you choose only the best VPNs, we’ve conducted a series of tests and arrived at the top three VPNs you can use to watch NBA Online.
The best VPNs to watch NBA games online – Detailed list
1. NordVPN
An efficient VPN service that offers advanced encryption protocols and robust security features. It lets you unblock and access streaming services and social media platforms.
Has a network of ultra-fast VPN servers present in over 100 countries
Blocks ads, trackers, and malware for a cleaner browsing experience
Best-in-class security with AES-256-bit encryption
Kill Switch automatically stops traffic if the VPN connection drops
Split tunneling allows selective routing of internet traffic
Offers extra protection with Double VPN
Onion over VPN combines with the Tor network
Employs a stringent no-logs policy
Supports up to ten simultaneous devices
Money-back guarantee of 30 days
Pros
- Offers robust encryption protocols
- Responsive 24/7 customer support
- No bandwidth throttling
Cons
- Mobile apps might be laggy at times
Do you want to watch basketball from literally anywhere in the world? Then NordVPN is the best option for you. This top-rated VPN is perfect for streaming and works seamlessly with major streaming services such as Hulu+ Live TV, NBA League Pass, NBA games, and others. It also has a great unblocking feature.
Thanks to its over 6,100 servers in 111 countries, you can always find a server for whatever location you need. In addition, you do not have to worry about the speed with NordVPN; the VPN service uses the NordLynx tunneling protocol, which guarantees super-fast connection speeds and a buffer-free streaming experience.
Furthermore, you do not have to worry about privacy because NordVPN is packed with formidable security and privacy protocols, including a robust kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and RAM-only servers. There is also an ad blocker, Threat Protection from malware, SmartDNS, and obfuscation technology.
2. Private Internet Access (PIA)
An effective and fast VPN service known for its robust security features and extensive global server network. It is a reliable choice for streaming NBA online.
Boasts an extensive server network for fast streaming
Allows P2P file sharing across all its servers
Provides robust security through AES 256-bit encryption
Built-in malware, ad, and tracker blocking
Has a proven no-logs policy
Has RAM-based servers
A dedicated split tunneling functionality
Offers a reliable kill switch feature for added security
Connects unlimited devices simultaneously
30-day money-back guarantee
Pros
- Boasts blazing-fast servers for streaming
- User-friendly and intuitive interface
- Offers anonymous payment methods
Cons
- No app exclusion/whitelisting
Private Internet Access (PIA) boasts a vast server network, especially in the US. It has at least one server per state, which is a lot. We can confidently say that every server performs optimally and can provide you with different IPs from your original one.
PIA’s servers are speedy and reliable as well. With PIA, you can stream a game on Hulu with almost nonexistent buffering in crisp HD quality. However, you may encounter video lags when you fast-forward the video. Additionally, this VPN offers excellent speeds regardless of the server you’re connected to.
Furthermore, this VPN works excellently with other streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Netflix. With its support for unlimited simultaneous connections, you and your family can enjoy multiple games simultaneously.
On security, PIA is safe and secure. It has RAM-only servers, complete leak protection, and perfect forward secrecy. If you need extra security assurance, it also publishes a transparency report.
3. ExpressVPN
A privacy-focused VPN with robust encryption, unlimited bandwidth, and a strict no-logs policy. It offers seamless access to any geo-restricted platform.
Offers 3,000 servers in 100+ countries
Uses top-notch AES-256 encryption
Has a strict no-logs policy
Runs RAM-based server network
Split tunneling feature to route specific traffic
An integrated kill switch feature
Has Onion over VPN servers
Supports P2P file sharing
Allows 8 simultaneous connnections
Offers a 30-day refund policy
Pros
- Offers robust encryption and security features
- Provides high-speed servers for seamless streaming
- Reliable customer support with 24/7 availability
Cons
- More expensive than the other VPNs
ExpressVPN is one of the best-performing VPN providers and undoubtedly the best option for streaming NBA games. Its server network is impressively extensive and lightning-fast.
If you are outside the location you wish to access streams from and, as such, can’t pay using local payment methods, ExpressVPN supports a wide array of alternative payment methods. You can use it to subscribe to NBA League Pass at discounted prices and unblock other sports streaming services worldwide to stream NBA games online.
Thanks to the excellent collection of American servers specifically designed and optimized for HD live streaming, you can always expect HD quality. ExpressVPN stamps its place as the best option for streaming NBA games live with its server locations in the US and their quality optimization.
Its RAM-only servers and a simple click-and-go interface are among its features. That means it is easy to use and will protect your anonymity since it never stores any logs from your time online.
How to watch NBA games online with League Pass
The standard and easiest way to watch NBA games online is the NBA League Pass. It allows you to stream live games in premium HD and is available in most countries. You also do not need a VPN to use the League Pass.
However, a VPN service is an excellent way to save money and enjoy NBA games online. Premium VPNs like NordVPN allow you to subscribe in locations where the League Pass is considerably cheaper, such as Vietnam, Argentina, and the Philippines.
How to watch the NBA online from the USA
Lovers of basketball and the NBA can watch the game on their preferred streaming channels worldwide, but sometimes, viewers want more. With the advent of numerous different streaming channels, viewers want to connect to their preferred home streaming service and watch the NBA games.
Below is an overview of different streaming services that you can watch the NBA games on for those living in the US:
| Streaming service | Monthly price | Free trial option |
|---|---|---|
| Fubo TV | $74.99 or higher | 7-day free trial |
| YouTube TV | $72.99 or higher | 14-day free trial |
| Sling TV | $40 or higher | No, but frequent and alternating sign-up promotions |
| Hulu + Live TV | $69.99 or higher | No |
| DirecTV Stream | $74.99 or higher | Five-day free trial |
If you take a trip out of the US, you might experience some difficulty in accessing your regular streaming platforms. But this should not discourage you from taking that much-needed vacation; there’s an excellent solution.
With a VPN and Sling TV, you can access many channels that bring you the best of the NBA. These channels include NBA TV, ESPN, TNT, and, most importantly, access to League Pass.
Notably, Sling does not come with ABC, but you can get it using a sports package add-on, which gives you a simulcast of the NBA Finals.
How to watch NBA games in the UK
Viewers in the United Kingdom can enjoy the NBA games via Sky Sports, which has broadcasting rights to show games. If you reside in the UK or are visiting, you can watch the regular basketball season, the playoff games, and even the Finals. The channels for these are Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Arena.
On the other hand, if you cannot access Sky Sports, you can get it via the NOW TV platform. The platform allows you to get a 24-hour pass to watch any NBA game you choose, or you can pay for a monthly subscription.
- NOW Sports Day Membership: £11.98 ($15)
- NOW Sports Month Membership: £34.99 ($44)
Sky Sports and NOW TV are blocked to viewers outside the UK and Ireland, so you need a UK VPN if you wish to access either. We advise using a premium VPN like NordVPN to get around the geo-restrictions and censorship.
How to watch NBA games in Canada
For a long time, TSN was the fan-favorite TV broadcaster for basketball in Canada. But now, there is competition in Sportsnet NOW, which lets users watch NBA games online on streaming sites and TV.
Even without a television subscription, you can still register to use through their streaming platform. The subscription can either be monthly or annually.
- Sportsnet NOW: $14.99 (CAD) per month ($11 USD)
- TSN: $19.99 (CAD) per month ($14.75 USD)
If you are outside Canada and want to use TSN or Sportsnet NOW, you will not have access due to geo-restrictions. For this reason, you would be better off using a robust Canada VPN to bypass any censorship placed on the games’ live broadcast. You can also get and use NBA League Pass in Canada.
How to watch NBA games in Australia
For viewers in the outback, Foxtel or Kayo Sports are the best options for NBA live games. Both broadcast channels have packages with ESPN, and you can also get the NBA League Pass.
While we can recommend using a VPN if you are outside Australia and consider using these broadcast channels, we must note that Kayo Sports actively blocks VPN servers. However, you can use Foxtel and its apps without issues; it won’t block your VPN.
Kayo Sports offers two-tier no-contract plans: Basic and Premium. The difference between both plans is the number of devices you can stream simultaneously. With Basic, you can use two devices, while Premium allows you to add a third.
- Foxtel: $25 AUD per month plus $29 AUD ($19 USD) Foxtel NOW Sports Pack
- Kayo Sports: Basic $25 AUD per month ($17 USD), Premium $35 AUD per month ($23 USD)
How to watch NBA games in India
If you’re in India and you love basketball, the best way to watch live NBA games is via Jio TV’s free media player. For ₹499 a year (around 6 US Dollars), you can stream NBA games in HD on two screens simultaneously, and if you want to increase that to four screens, it’ll cost you ₹599 (7 US Dollars) a year.
These prices seem low and enticing, but you can’t benefit from this excellent deal unless you have an Indian number and means of payment native to the location.
Alternatively, if you can get connections in India to help you, you can set up an account with Jio TV. They work excellently with VPNs outside India.
Premium VPNs like NordVPN can help you with virtual Indian servers, which makes it exceedingly easier to enjoy Indian content.
How to stream NBA from your device
The fun of watching the NBA games from the comfort of your home does not end with your TV. You can also enjoy the NBA from the comfort of your portable smart device. However, you might require a VPN to ensure unrestricted access to all the NBA games.
Below are the ways to enjoy the NBA on several different devices; you should find the right one for you:
How to stream NBA on your phone (Android and iOS)
Getting in on the action using your Android or iOS device is easy. All you need is a VPN and follow these simple steps:
- Download a VPN service. We recommend NordVPN because it has multiple US servers.
- Select a server location that is not affected by the blackout censorship.
- Visit a streaming site broadcasting NBA live games.
- Enjoy the game.
How to stream NBA on your PC (Windows or Mac)
- Download a VPN client app on your PC. NordVPN, most preferably.
- Connect to a server location outside the blackout zones.
- Choose a streaming site, such as Sling TV.
- Enjoy NBA content.
How to stream NBA on Amazon Fire Stick
You can stream NBA games using your Amazon Fire Stick with a VPN. The steps are listed below:
- Download a VPN on your Amazon Fire Stick.
- Connect to a server located outside the NBA blackout zone.
- Select a match and enjoy.
How to stream NBA on Roku
Like Fire Stick, you can stream NBA games on your Roku device with a VPN. Here’s how:
- Download a VPN with support for Roku.
- Install the VPN on your router (since Roku does not support VPN software).
- Select a server location outside the blackout zone.
- Select a game and enjoy.
How to stream NBA on Kodi
With Kodi, you can transform any device, computer, or smartphone into a streaming device. To unlock its full potential, you will need a VPN for Kodi. But once you get one, the next steps should be pretty simple:
- Download and install a premium VPN.
- Select a server location in the US.
- Choose the streaming service of your choice.
- Enjoy your game.
How to watch NBA Games for free 2024
If you need a quick fix for your NBA streaming, let us help you find a solution. You can try out the free trial plans from Fubo TV, Hulu Live TV, and NBA League Pass. Note that the trial’s expiration connotes the start of a paid subscription.
Remember that seeking to stream the NBA for free can involve consuming pirated content, which can have consequences.
1. Free NBA streaming sites 2024: Watch NBA games without cable
It is relatively difficult to find free streaming platforms that are both reliable and risk-free. We have discovered that the best free sports streaming sites can be found on VIPBox and NBA-stream.com.
But even as these sites are considered reliable, they are not entirely safe, and your privacy and security aren’t guaranteed either. You may even run the risk of downloading malware unknowingly, and as such, we advise that you steer clear of these sites altogether.
2. Watch the NBA online with Kodi
You can enjoy the best Kodi offers with its versatility and flexibility. It allows you to stream NBA games live. While Kodi is a paid subscription service, you can still find and enjoy free sports add-ons.
The free add-ons from the Kodi app include Bennu, SportsDevil, cCloud, Fusion, and UK Turk Playlists.
3. Torrenting NBA games
Torrenting is an option but not always advisable. Torrents for NBA games are free but very difficult to find, which is why it is at the bottom of the list of options.
The act of torrenting on its own can also be a bit tricky. You do not know exactly what you are getting when you click download. On the one hand, it can contain malware; on the other, you may be damning yourself to legal repercussions.
So if and when you choose to use torrenting, we must advise that you do so while connected to a VPN to avoid law enforcement from discovering your IP and, thus, you.
Channels to stream NBA games
How to stream NBA on TNT
TV broadcasting behemoth TNT plans to feature 65 games of the ’24-’25 season. Here’s how to watch:
Validate the Watch TNT channel using your subscription from a participating cable or satellite provider. TNT is available on Sling TV, DirecTV Stream, Live TV, YouTube TV, and Hulu.
How to stream NBA on ABC
Watch ABC games on the ABC app with a participating pay TV provider login. ABC is available in certain markets on DirecTV Stream, FuboTV, Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV. ABC is also generally accessible via antenna broadcasts.
How to access the ESPN NBA stream
Use your subscription from a participating satellite or cable provider to authenticate the ESPN channel.
ESPN is available on DirecTV Stream, FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, and Sling TV.
NBA 2023-24 season schedule
Here are the key dates for the 2024-25 NBA season:
| Fixtures | Dates |
|---|---|
| Preseason | October 4, 2024 |
| Regular season starts | October 22, 2024 |
| All-Star break | February 16, 2025 |
| End of the regular season | April 13, 2025 |
| Play-in tournament | April 15-18, 2024 |
| NBA Playoffs begin | April 19, 2024 |
| NBA Finals | June 5, 2025 |
FAQs
The market is saturated with many VPN services, and with that large pool of options, it can be difficult to find the best ones. Based on our tests, NordVPN is the best option for all accounts. It is fast and stable, making it the best for streaming live content, especially if you want a smooth streaming experience.
With the NBA’s League Pass add-on, you can stream NBA basketball games. You can also get past Amazon, become an NBA League Pass member, and save much money.
No, not if you are in the US. If you are outside the US, you must use a VPN to bypass the NBA’s blackout censorship. A VPN lets you access FuboTV, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and NBA League Pass.
The NBA stream is safe to use, provided you are streaming via a legitimate service provider. But if you need an added layer of security and privacy, you can subscribe to NordVPN.
If you want to enjoy the NBA season from the comfort of your couch, you are in luck. With so many streaming platforms dedicated to bringing the game to your doorstep, you just have to choose the best or most preferred option and enjoy. Use a VPN to get around the NBA’s blackout restrictions.
