With the start of the NBA season quickly approaching, there are more than a few ways to catch the game. If you’re a super fan, you might gravitate towards on-demand subscription services like NBA League Pass. Or, maybe you’re more interested in learning some of the other ways to watch your favorite teams. As with most sports, if you want full access to games, you’ll need to crack open your wallet. That said, we list a number of paid and unpaid options — but as you’d probably expect, the more you pay, the more coverage you’ll receive.
Luckily, there are lots of ways to tune in to Roku NBA coverage. There are many different Roku media players to choose from. And with each Roku device, you’ll acquire access to the Roku Channel Store that provides apps that showcase NBA games, news, and updates. Keep reading to find out all the ways you can watch.
NBA channels on Roku
The Roku Store is the key needed to unlock the much-coveted coverage of NBA teams and league news. Paid subscriptions come in the form of on-demand broadcasts as well as cable-alternative solutions, whereas non-paid apps and channels tend to include more commentary and news. The Roku Store also carries all the major networks that televise games — like ESPN, NBC, and TNT. But you’ll need an existing cable package — more on that below. Unfortunately, there aren’t team specific channels in the Roku Store, but an easy workaround would involve the YouTube app. Simply download and follow your favorite teams via their YouTube channels.
ESPN
There are a few ways you can gain access to ESPN programming through your Roku device. ESPN isn’t a free channel and works as an extension of your existing TV provider. When you enter the Roku Channel Store and add its channel, you’ll have the option to provide the information for your cable provider. If you have the ESPN+ app, which costs only $4.99/mo., you can start watching once you activate your account via Roku.
fuboTV
fuboTV launched in 2015 as a streaming service for soccer and transitioned into all-sports in 2017, before becoming a complete cable-replacement service. fuboTV starts at $59.99/mo. and can be customized with channel bundles and extra features. fuboTV delivers a comprehensive package of NBA coverage. In addition to networks like the various ESPN networks and NBA TV, you’ll get CBS Sports Network, FS1, FS2, MLB Network, NFL Network, and NFL RedZone. Unfortunately, TNT among a few other channels recently left fuboTV.
Hulu + Live TV
NBA games are available on numerous channels, like ESPN and TNT, that are part of Hulu’s live TV package. In fact, Hulu + Live TV hosts a number of sports-centric channels. Hulu + Live TV is a cable alternative service that works pretty much the same as traditional TV. Like fuboTV, you can add your Hulu + Live TV subscription by adding the Hulu app in the Roku Store and linking your account information. Hulu’s streaming services are as different as horses and zebras. Check out our expert analyses to learn more about Hulu’s on-demand app. And we also have a Hulu + Live TV review if you’re interested in more information using Hulu as a cable-replacement service. Head here for details about Hulu’s packages, pricing, and channels, including the service’s ad-free options. And learn more about how you can stream hardcourt action in 4K resolution.
NBA
The NBA app in the Roku Store is one of the few apps that you can enjoy for the cost of nothing. Your access is limited to short videos and stats, but it’s useful for quick updates. In order to use the app to stream games, you’ll first need a subscription to a paid service like NBA League Pass. One thing to remember is that all games are subject to blackouts.
NBA Top
Free apps aren’t always easy to come by, especially when it concerns sports. That said, NBA Top is one of the few that’ll deliver NBA coverage. Don’t expect access to live and full games, but there are plenty of Best Moments, Highlights, and Last Gameplays videos. This app is especially useful if you’re trying to keep up-to-date with recent league news and memorable plays. Each playlist is curated regularly making NBA Top addictive for any NBA superfan.
Watch TNT
Aside from ESPN, TNT is one of the few channels to broadcast NBA games. With its contract with the NBA extending through the 2024-2025 season, TNT is a must-have to watch every game. Although, unlike ESPN, there isn’t a TNT app in the Roku Store. Instead, you’ll need to watch with a cable alternative service like Hulu + Live TV or Sling TV. Not every TV provider carries TNT (like fuboTV above), so make sure to first check what each service offers before you buy. Almost every cable-alternative service offers a 1 week trial period to try for free. We highly recommend testing each service out before you buy.
The final cut
The best way to watch the NBA on Roku is through your cable or cable-replacement service. Pretty much every service has an app available in the Roku Channel Store, so you’ll be able to sign in to your paid account. But if you’re trying to save a buck, there are also a few free apps. The only hangup with free apps like NBA Top is the fact that you won’t be able to tune into live game broadcasts. Instead, you’ll find limited videos of highlights and league stats. But for no cost, what more can you expect? The NBA app also provides a way to sign in and stream through your NBA League Pass account. Once you sync up your paid account with your Roku device, you can start streaming games to your TV in no time.