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The NBA playoffs are here, with all eyes on the defeating the reigning NBA Champions Boston Celtics and hoisting the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy in June.
NBA Playoffs coverage is split across various networks, including TNT, ESPN, ABC and NBA TV, with a variety of ways to stream the action live online without cable. Below is everything you need to know to watch the 2025 NBA Playoffs:
When Are the 2025 NBA Playoffs?
The NBA Playoffs officially stars on Saturday, April 19 with games scheduled until the NBA Finals in June.
How to Watch the 2025 NBA Playoffs on TV
NBA Playoff games broadcast across TNT, ESPN, ABC and NBA TV. The first game of the playoffs features Milwaukee Bucks vs. Indiana Pacers at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT on ESPN. If you don’t have cable, there are still plenty of ways stream the game live online on streamers such as Sling TV, Hulu+ Live TV and DirecTV.
How to Stream the 2025 NBA Playoffs Online
Sling TV is the most comprehensive and affordable way to stream all the necessary networks for the Playoffs. The streamer’s Sling Orange + Blue package includes ESPN, TNT and ABC. Plus, a limited-time deal cuts the price of your first month down to $33 (afterwards $65.99/month).
To catch every games on NBA TV, you’ll want to sign up for their Orange + Blue Package with “Sports Extra” add-on, which also includes the sports network. “Sports Extra” is an additional $11/Month to the price of Sling Orange + Blue.
Hulu + Live TV is another great way to catch all the action live, with the option to record the games to watch later with Cloud DVR. In addition to having access to all the networks that will be broadcasting this year’s NBA Playoffs (ABC, ESPN and TNT), you’ll also be able to watch Hulu’s extensive lineup of original shows and movies. Best of all? Hulu + Live TV has a 3-day free trial, so you can try before you commit.
Starting at $34.99/month (and a 5-day free trial), DirecTV has every channel you’ll need to catch all the best games from the NBA Playoffs. It boasts the most RSNs and special features for sports fanatics, in addition to the major networks, like TNT, ESPN, ABC and NBA TV.
For a complete schedule for the NBA Playoffs, including matchups, networks and start times, click here.
