How to live stream the NBA with a VPN
Bypass streaming restrictions on restricted Wi-Fi networks and live stream NBA games from anywhere:
- Get ExpressVPN.
- Connect to a server location that matches the broadcaster you want to watch. For example, United States basketball fans can connect to a server in the U.S. to catch games on Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, or YouTube TV.
- It’s game time!
Watching on a computer? For the best streaming experience, use the ExpressVPN browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
Why you need a VPN to stream the NBA
Some internet and network providers might slow your connection if they think you’re streaming too much, causing laggy streams and buffering. A VPN encrypts your traffic, keeping your online activity private from your ISP, allowing you to bypass throttling and watch NBA games without any issues.
If you’re working at night and the Wi-Fi at your job blocks streaming services, you could miss out on watching some games. But with a VPN, your activity is encrypted and anonymized, allowing you to unblock streaming platforms with ease. Just make sure you don’t cheer too loudly and catch your boss’s attention.
Best VPN for watching the NBA in 2024
ExpressVPN has a global network of servers in 105 countries and 9 U.S. states, making it easy to find one in the location you need. All our servers work seamlessly with sports streaming services that broadcast the NBA, such as NBA League Pass and YouTube TV. Our 10-Gbps servers give you a blazing-fast VPN connection, so you never have to worry about buffering or lag during those tense finishes.
You can connect up to 8 devices to the VPN at once with a single account, so you can watch the NBA on your smart TV while your family streams their favorite shows or movies on their own devices. Try ExpressVPN now with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
How to stream the NBA with League Pass
If you want to check out the biggest showcase game the NBA has to offer, NBA League Pass is a great option. You can enjoy the NBA without blackouts by using the international version of the service, which comes with a 7-day free trial. Various packages are available, including one for those who only want to watch a specific team. Check out the NBA’s official website for a complete list of countries where League Pass is available.
Stream the NBA using services with free trials
| Service | Channels | Free trial length |
| DirecTV Stream | ABC, ESPN, NBA TV (Choice plan and up), TNT, select regional sports networks | 5 days |
| Fubo | ABC, ESPN, NBA TV (Sports Plus add-on), select regional sports networks | 7 days |
| Hulu + Live TV | ABC, ESPN, NBA TV (Sports add-on), TNT, select regional sports networks | 3 days |
| YouTube TV | ABC, ESPN, NBA TV, TNT | Varies |
Live stream the NBA on ESPN+
ESPN+ will often simulcast NBA games airing on ABC and ESPN throughout the 2024-25 season. Please note that a valid TV subscription, either to a traditional cable company or a cord-cutting service like YouTube TV, is typically required to stream NBA broadcasts on ESPN+.
Want it on the big screen? Learn about all the ways to get ExpressVPN on your TV.
Other ways to watch the NBA
United States
Live stream the NBA on Sling TV
Channels: ABC, ESPN, NBA TV (Sports Extra), TNT, select regional sports networks
In the United States, Sling TV offers every channel airing nationally-televised NBA games. You also get access to select regional sports networks, but these will depend on the ZIP code you use when you sign up. You’ll need a valid U.S. payment method to start streaming the NBA on Sling.
We’ll keep this page updated with more ways to watch NBA games as they’re announced.
Live stream the NBA on all your streaming devices
ExpressVPN is compatible with all major streaming devices, from smartphones and tablets to gaming consoles and smart TVs, so you’re all set to watch the NBA at home or on the go. You can even connect up to eight devices with a single account.
Key dates for the 2024-25 NBA season
The 2024-25 NBA season officially begins Tuesday, October 22. Here are some key dates to keep in mind throughout the league’s 79th season.
| Date | Event |
| October 22, 2024 | NBA regular season begins |
| November 2, 2024 | NBA Mexico City Game 2024 (Washington Wizards vs. Miami Heat) |
| November 12 – December 3, 2024 | NBA Cup |
| December 10-11, 2024 | NBA Cup Quarterfinals |
| December 14, 2024 | NBA Cup Semifinals (Las Vegas, Nevada) |
| December 17, 2024 | NBA Cup Championship (Las Vegas, Nevada) |
| December 25, 2024 | NBA Christmas Day Games |
| January 21-25, 2025 | NBA Rivals Week |
| January 23 and 25, 2025 | NBA Paris Games 2025 (Indiana Pacers vs. San Antonio Spurs) |
| February 14-16, 2025 | NBA All-Star Weekend |
| April 15-18, 2025 | NBA Play-In Tournament |
| April 19, 2025 | NBA Playoffs begin |
| June 5, 2025 | NBA Finals begin |
ExpressVPN is a VPN service not intended to be used as a means of copyright circumvention. Please read the ExpressVPN Terms of Service and your content provider’s Terms of Use for more details.
FAQ: About live streaming the NBA in 2024
Can I use a VPN to watch the NBA from another country?
Some users might watch the NBA by connecting to a VPN server in a country other than their own, but doing so may violate copyright or the streaming service’s terms of use. ExpressVPN is a privacy and security tool, and using it to circumvent copyright is against our Terms of Service. We cannot see or control what you do while connected to our VPN, so you are responsible for ensuring that your use complies with all relevant terms and laws.
Should I use a free VPN to watch NBA games?
You can try to use a free VPN to stream NBA games, but you might run into some obstacles along the way. Free VPNs often have limited server networks, so you might not find a server in the location you need. They typically provide slower speeds and limit your bandwidth, so you may have to deal with constant buffering or disconnects during matches. ExpressVPN offers high-speed servers so you can stream NBA games in HD or even UHD when available. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
Can I stream the NBA outside the United States?
Definitely. NBA League Pass International is available to customers all over the world, although prices vary by region. Plus, there’s the added bonus of no blackout games, meaning you can watch the NBA without any issues.
Why is my VPN not working with NBA League Pass?
If your VPN isn’t working, you can try disconnecting and reconnecting to refresh your IP address, or clearing your browser cookies and cache. If that doesn’t work, get ExpressVPN. It works seamlessly with NBA League Pass. You can try it risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
Does NBA TV have live NBA games?
Yes, NBA TV does broadcast live NBA games, including select playoff games. Please note local blackouts may apply, meaning the game might not be available in certain markets if a local broadcaster holds the rights. For example, a Los Angeles resident would be unable to watch a Lakers-Jazz game airing on NBA TV.
