The 2025 NBA Playoffs are here — and whether you’re a casual viewer or a hardcore basketball fan, you don’t want to miss a single dunk, buzzer-beater, or game-winning block. With more people cutting the cord and switching to streaming, knowing how to watch NBA Playoffs 2025 live using TV and mobile apps is more important than ever.
In this guide, you’ll find the best platforms to stream games, options for both U.S. and international viewers, and tips to make sure you never miss the action.
NBA Playoffs 2025 Summary
The NBA playoffs bring together the top 16 teams—eight from each conference—in a best-of-seven series format. This year includes championship contenders such as the Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors.
Important Dates:
- Play-In Tournament: April 16–19, 2025
- First Round Begins: April 20, 2025
- Conference Semifinals: Early May 2025
- Conference Finals: Mid to late May 2025
- NBA Finals: Scheduled to begin June 6, 2025
Best TV Apps to Watch NBA Playoffs 2025
Whether you’re watching from your couch or casting from your phone to your smart TV, having the right TV app ensures you catch every tip-off, buzzer-beater, and highlight. Here are the best TV apps to stream NBA Playoffs 2025 live —They are compatible with smart TVs, Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, and more. optimized for both quality and accessibility.
1. YouTube TV
- Includes ESPN, ABC, TNT, and NBA TV
- Unlimited DVR
- Smooth user interface and mobile app
Free Trial Available: ✅
Best For: Cord-cutters who want all playoff games in one place
2. Hulu + Live TV
- Includes ESPN, ABC, TNT
- Comes with Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle
- Excellent streaming quality and mobile access
Free Trial:
Best For: Families looking for entertainment + sports combo
3. Sling TV (Orange Package)
- Budget-friendly with ESPN and TNT
- Does not include ABC by default (workaround required)
Free Trial: ✅ (promos vary)
Best For: Affordable streaming with flexibility
4. FuboTV
- Offers ABC and ESPN, but TNT is not included
- Great for sports in general: NFL, MLB, NHL, etc.
Free Trial: ✅
Best For: Viewers who want a multi-sport platform
For International Fans: NBA League Pass is ideal for accessing all games without regional blackouts.
Tip: Download the official NBA app for quick access to live scores, updates, and streaming options based on your subscription.
NBA Playoffs 2025 Bracket
Here are the confirmed first-round matchups:
Eastern Conference:
- (1) Milwaukee Bucks vs. (8) Atlanta Hawks
- (2) Boston Celtics vs. (7) Miami Heat
- (3) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (6) Philadelphia 76ers
- (4) New York Knicks vs. (5) Indiana Pacers
Western Conference:
- (1) Denver Nuggets vs. (8) Los Angeles Lakers
- (2) Phoenix Suns vs. (7) Golden State Warriors
- (3) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (6) Dallas Mavericks
- (4) LA Clippers vs. (5) Sacramento Kings
The bracket will be updated as teams advance through each round.
How to Watch NBA Playoffs Outside the U.S.
If you’re outside the U.S., the best way to watch the NBA Playoffs is through NBA League Pass. Watching the NBA Playoffs 2025 from outside the United States? No problem — international fans have great options to catch every game live and on-demand. Whether you’re in Europe, Asia, Africa, or elsewhere, here’s how to stream the NBA Playoffs without missing a single moment.
NBA League Pass (International)
- No regional blackouts
- Full access to every playoff game live and on-demand
- Compatible with smart TVs, mobile apps, and browser
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓
1. When do the NBA Playoffs 2025 start?
The NBA Playoffs 2025 officially begin with the first-round games on April 20, 2025, following the Play-In Tournament from April 16–19.
2. Where can I watch the NBA Playoffs 2025 live?
You can watch the playoffs live on ESPN, TNT, ABC, and stream them through platforms like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, FuboTV, and the NBA App.
3. How can I watch the NBA Playoffs outside the U.S.?
International fans can stream every game using NBA League Pass, which offers live and on-demand coverage without blackout restrictions in most countries.
4. Is NBA League Pass free during the playoffs?
No, NBA League Pass is a paid subscription service. However, new users may find limited-time free trials or regional promos depending on the country.
5. Can I watch NBA Playoffs on my phone?
Yes! Use the NBA App, ESPN App, or your streaming provider’s app (e.g., YouTube TV) to watch live games on both iOS and Android devices.
6. What devices are compatible with NBA League Pass?
You can watch League Pass on:
- Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Android TV)
- Smartphones & Tablets
- Computers (via browser)
- Streaming devices (Roku, Fire Stick, Chromecast)
- Game consoles (PlayStation, Xbox)
7. Do I need cable to watch the NBA Playoffs?
No. You can stream the NBA Playoffs through services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, or Hulu + Live TV without needing a traditional cable subscription.
8. When are the NBA Finals 2025 scheduled to begin?
The NBA Finals 2025 are scheduled to begin on June 6, 2025, and will be broadcast on ABC.
Key Players to Follow This Postseason
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks) – Leading Milwaukee’s strong playoff push
- Stephen Curry (Warriors) – One of the greatest shooters, still delivering clutch performances
- Jayson Tatum (Celtics) – A rising star with championship aspirations
- Nikola Jokic (Nuggets) – Known for his all-around game and leadership
- Luka Doncic (Mavericks) – Electrifying guard capable of big playoff moments
Conclusion:
The NBA Playoffs 2025 offer nonstop excitement, high-level competition, and the chance for teams to etch their names into history. Whether you’re watching from home, on your phone, or on the go, there are plenty of ways to stay connected to the action.
Bookmark this page for weekly bracket updates, streaming details, and key highlights as we head toward the NBA Finals in June.
Get ready for a wild postseason – and enjoy every moment of the 2025 NBA Playoffs!
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the NBA or any streaming service provider.
