You can cut the cable and still watch NBA live on a lot of different streaming sites without having to pay crazy amounts of money.
But it’s hard to choose the right service because each platform has its own price plans, channel choices, add-ons, device support, and interface formats.
Getting a free trial is the best way to find out which streaming service is right for you.
But not every platform offers one, and to help you narrow your options, we have made a list of the best free NBA streaming sites.
These free versions or free trials offer an invaluable opportunity to explore various platforms, test their functionalities, and explore their content offerings before committing to a subscription.
Free NBA Streaming Sites in 2025
Here are the best streaming platforms for the NBA that offer free services or free trials.
1. Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is a powerhouse in the streaming industry, catering extensively to sports lovers, including NBA fans.
Offering a free trial period of 30 days for new and eligible returning subscribers, Hulu presents an enticing opportunity to experience their services at no cost.
The basketball lineup on Hulu comprises significant channels like ABC, ESPN, and TNT.
Its seamless user interface sets Hulu apart, ensuring an intuitive navigation experience.
The accessibility to significant sports networks like ESPN, ABC, and TNT is a game-changer.
The live sports coverage, particularly NBA games, is a standout feature, providing you with a taste of real-time basketball action.
This comprehensive coverage and the extensive trial period allow you to explore and evaluate the service thoroughly.
2. Sling TV
Sling TV stands out among streaming services by offering tailored channel packages that cater to individual preferences.
The 7-day free trial for new subscribers presents an opportunity to explore its unique features.
Despite a shorter trial period than other platforms, Sling TV remains an attractive choice due to its flexibility and affordability.
NBA fans can access games through Sling TV’s Sling Orange package, which includes pivotal channels like ESPN.
The platform’s customizable nature allows you to personalize your streaming experience.
While the trial duration might seem shorter, it still captures Sling TV’s offerings, emphasizing its commitment to flexibility and user choice.
3. YouTube TV
YouTube TV has gained prominence for its diverse sports coverage, making it an appealing choice for NBA enthusiasts.
With a 7-day free trial period for new subscribers, this platform allows you to sample its features before committing.
Occasionally, YouTube TV extends its trial duration during promotional periods, providing extended access for users.
The platform grants subscribers access to pivotal sports networks such as ESPN and ABC, ensuring live coverage of NBA games.
YouTube TV’s allure lies in its sports offerings, user-friendly interface, and unlimited cloud DVR storage.
The ease of navigation and the ability to record games for later viewing add to its appeal, creating a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience.
4. fuboTV
FuboTV has cemented its position as a haven for sports enthusiasts, including devoted NBA fans.
Offering a 7-day free trial for new subscribers, FuboTV beckons users to delve into its extensive sports content.
This platform emphasizes live sports streaming, providing access to NBA games through vital channels like ESPN and TNT.
Renowned for its immersive sports coverage, FuboTV goes beyond the norm, offering an experience that resonates with passionate sports viewers.
The trial period lets you immerse yourself in its comprehensive sports coverage, showcasing its prowess in delivering live NBA action.
5. HBO Max
HBO Max, powered by AT&T, is an enticing option for NBA game streaming.
While not directly providing a free trial, Max allows users to access its content through Amazon Prime Video’s HBO Max free trial, which extends for seven days for Amazon Prime Video subscribers, which itself has a 30-day trial.
Max remains a powerhouse, offering access to major sports channels like ESPN and TNT.
This platform ensures NBA enthusiasts don’t miss a single thrilling moment.
Leveraging the Amazon Prime Video free trial lets you glimpse Max’s NBA coverage, empowering users to assess its suitability.
6. DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream distinguishes itself with a vast channel lineup encompassing prominent sports networks such as ESPN and ABC.
The platform offers a 5-day free trial across all packages to test its streaming capabilities and explore its various NBA games.
While the trial duration might be shorter than other services, DirecTV Stream’s emphasis on an expansive channel lineup ensures a diverse selection for NBA fans.
This platform provides access to live NBA action with many games, underscoring its commitment to delivering an immersive viewing experience.
7. Bally Sports Plus
Bally Sports Plus beckons NBA fans with a compelling 7-day free trial accessible by simply signing up on the official Bally Sports website.
This trial offers a gateway to their exclusive content, allowing users to immerse themselves in the world of basketball without any initial financial commitment.
Bally Sports Plus, known for its regional sports coverage, aims to cater to local audiences and provide access to NBA games in select regions.
The trial period allows users to explore their offerings and experience firsthand the diverse array of NBA games available through the platform.
8. NBA League Pass
The NBA League Pass is the pinnacle destination for devoted NBA fans.
Offering a 7-day free trial for new subscribers, the League Pass provides access to live and on-demand NBA games, coupled with an extensive archive of classic matchups.
This official streaming service ensures basketball enthusiasts never miss a beat, allowing them to savor every moment of the NBA season.
The trial period lets users glimpse the League Pass’s comprehensive coverage, showcasing its commitment to delivering a complete NBA viewing experience.
Watch NBA Online With a VPN
Geoblocking is a common tactic used by streaming providers to restrict access to their content.
Due to the territorial limitations of streaming services offering NBA games predominantly within the U.S., individuals outside this region encounter restrictions.
However, a VPN provides a solution by masking your location and granting access to geo-restricted content, including NBA games.
How to Choose the Best NBA Streaming Site
Choosing the best NBA streaming site requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure an optimal viewing experience.
Here’s a detailed look at what to consider:
1. Resolution
The resolution of the streaming platform significantly impacts the quality of your viewing experience.
Opt for platforms that offer high-definition (HD) or even 4K streaming, providing crystal-clear visuals for an immersive basketball experience.
2. Device Compatibility
Ensure the streaming service is compatible with your preferred devices.
Whether smartphones, tablets, laptops, or smart TVs, compatibility ensures you can watch NBA games seamlessly across your gadgets.
3. Trial Duration
Evaluate the duration of the free trial offered by the streaming service.
More extended trial periods allow for a more comprehensive assessment of the platform’s features and content, giving you a better understanding of its suitability for your needs.
4. Ease of Cancellation
Check the cancellation process for the free trial.
Some platforms make it easy to cancel before being charged, while others might require specific steps or timelines.
Choose platforms that offer hassle-free cancellation if the service doesn’t meet your expectations.
5. Platform Reviews and User Experiences
Research and read platform reviews and user experiences.
Insights from other users can provide valuable information about the streaming quality, reliability, customer service, and overall satisfaction level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Free Trials Work?
Free trials grant users access to a streaming platform’s full range of services and content for a limited duration without any charges.
This allows users to thoroughly explore the platform’s features, test its usability, and gauge the content quality before committing to a subscription.
Can I Cancel Free Trials Before Being Charged?
Most streaming platforms offer users the flexibility to cancel their free trials before the trial period expires, ensuring they won’t incur any charges.
You need to carefully review and understand the specific cancellation policies outlined by each platform to avoid any unexpected fees.
Are There Legal Implications with Free Trials?
Generally, canceling a free trial before its expiration doesn’t carry legal implications.
It is critical to understand the terms and conditions of each platform’s free trial offer in order to avoid any potential responsibilities or limits indicated in the fine print.
What Happens After the Free Trial Period Ends?
Upon the conclusion of the free trial period, platforms usually prompt users to subscribe to maintain continued access to their services.
If users opt not to subscribe, their access to the platform’s content may be restricted or limited.
Can I Access All NBA Games During the Free Trial?
The availability of NBA games during the free trial period varies across platforms.
While some platforms might offer unrestricted access to all games, others might have limitations on specific games or events, depending on licensing agreements and content availability.
Conclusion
Leveraging free trials or totally free NBA live streams sites is an excellent way to explore and experience the diverse world of basketball entertainment.
By understanding the workings of free trials and considering critical factors when choosing a platform, users can make informed decisions and enjoy uninterrupted NBA game viewing with these best NBA streaming sites with free trials.
