How to Watch the NBA Finals Without Cable
This post has been updated with information on Sling TV's new deal.
The first game of the 2016 NBA Finals tips off Thursday, June 2 at 9 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN3. And if you don't want to miss the rematch between Stephen Curry's Golden State Warriors and LeBron James' Cleveland Cavaliers, here's how you can catch the games online.
If you have a cable login (which we assume you're paying for), you can login in abc.com, or watch via ABC's iOS or Android app. Did you shell out $9.99 for the NBA League Pass? Sorry, due to broadcasting restrictions you can't watch the Finals via the service. But there are other options if you don't have cable:
- Antenna: If you are in range, you may be able to pick up ABC's broadcast using an indoor antenna. Here are five reasonably-priced options.
- Sling TV: Another option is the $20-per-month Sling TV, which offers a $5 add-on for broadcast channels including ABC. It also offers a seven day free trial (if you haven't used it for your other streaming needs). For new customers, Sling is including the Broadcast Extra package (which includes ABC) in the free trial for the duration of the NBA Finals in select markets (Chicago, Fresno-Visalia, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, Raleigh-Durham and San Francisco.)
- WatchESPN App: Use your Sling (or Playstation Vue) credentials to login to the WatchESPN app.
For more info, check out Cut Cable Today's full guide. And here are five live streaming sports services every sports fan needs to know about.
Full NBA Finals 2016 Schedule:
Game 1: Thursday, June 2, 9 p.m. on ABC/ESPN3
Game 2: Sunday, June 5, 8 p.m. on ABC/ESPN3
Game 3: Wednesday, June 8, 9 p.m. on ABC/ESPN3
Game 4: Friday, June 10, 9 p.m. on ABC/ESPN3
Game 5: Monday, June 13, 9 p.m. on ABC/ESPN3
Game 6: Thursday, June 16, 9 p.m. on ABC/ESPN3
Game 7: Sunday, June 19, 8 p.m. on ABC/ESPN3